Learners from Boitekong Secondary and Boitekong II Secondary in North West have taken a powerful stand against the rising challenges of drugs, gangsterism, and violence in their schools.
Over two days, pupils, teachers, and community leaders joined hands under the theme “My school, my responsibility – standing against drugs, violence and gangs.” The campaign was led by the Adopt-a-School Foundation in partnership with social development, health, correctional services, and the police.
The pupils listened to testimonies from rehabilitated offenders who shared their stories about how drugs and crime derailed their lives. “You are children and must remain focused on your schooling. Violence, gangsterism and drugs are crimes. If you do not stop, you will end up in jail,” warned Edward Masilo from correctional services.
Teachers and learners also staged a play that dramatized the painful reality of recent incidents linked to drugs and violence. The performance ended with a peer-to-peer challenge, urging pupils not to sabotage their own education.
The campaign climaxed with an emotional pledge, where the entire school community promised to respect each other, protect their education, and create a safe environment for learning.
“This campaign was about more than awareness. It was about hope, unity and a shared commitment to a better future,” said Adopt-a-School programme manager Peter Mahani. “You could feel the energy shift when the pupils stood up to take the pledge.”
Support from social workers, healthcare professionals, police, and correctional services reinforced the message with practical tools. Social workers highlighted mental health support, health teams spoke about substance abuse risks, and officers outlined the criminal consequences of crime.
Corporate partner Merafe Resources backed the campaign as part of its commitment to building stronger communities. “We believe in safe and healthy schools where children can reach their potential. By working with the Adopt-a-School Foundation, we are investing in the future.”
Since 2002, the Adopt-a-School Foundation – part of the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation – has supported nearly 700 schools, impacting more than 1.7 million learners and training over 35,000 teachers. At its core is a model of moral regeneration, combining academic, social, and infrastructure support to uplift communities.