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Hoërskool Ben Viljoen welcomed representatives from the South African Police Service (SAPS) and several key stakeholders on Friday, 13 March 2026, as part of an ongoing strategy to prevent and combat crime in schools.
The visit formed part of the Social Crime Prevention Programme led by the Groblersdal SAPS Social Crime Prevention Office, aimed at educating learners and educators about the consequences of criminal behaviour and the importance of making responsible choices.
The SAPS team was joined by various stakeholders who play an important role in community safety and support services. These included the Community Police Forum (CPF), Spiritual Crime Prevention, the Thuthuzela Care Centre (TCC), the Broadway Legacy Foundation, and the Department of Justice. Together, they engaged with learners and educators to raise awareness about social challenges that negatively impact young people and school communities.
During the session, several critical topics were addressed to help learners understand both the legal and personal consequences of harmful behaviour. These included assault, cyberbullying, gangsterism, substance abuse, and the implications of having a criminal record.
Speakers emphasised the importance of respect, responsible decision-making, and the responsible use of social media. Learners were encouraged to avoid involvement in violence, bullying, and substance abuse, and to understand that actions taken during their youth can have long-term legal and personal consequences.
Representatives from the Department of Justice and the Thuthuzela Care Centre also provided valuable insight into the legal processes surrounding youth crime and the support structures available for victims of crime. The Community Police Forum and Spiritual Crime Prevention highlighted the importance of strong community values, mentorship, and cooperation between schools, families, and law enforcement.
The campaign forms part of SAPS’ broader commitment to building safer schools and empowering young people with knowledge that can help them make positive life choices.
We express our appreciation to Groblersdal SAPS and all participating stakeholders for taking the time to engage with learners and contribute to creating a safer and more informed school environment. Through initiatives like these, the school continues to promote awareness, accountability, and a culture of respect among learners, ensuring that education takes place in a safe and supportive environment.