| 2024/10/26 |
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Media Statement POLOKWANE – The South African Police Service (SAPS) partnered with the University of Limpopo to host a two-day session aimed at establishing a Campus Community Safety Forum (CCSF), concluding on 24 October 2024. This event focused on addressing campus safety concerns and fostering collaboration among key stakeholders. Participants included traditional authorities, local government representatives, law enforcement officials, university staff, students, and community policing forums. Dignitaries who graced the event included, local Traditional Authorities, MMC for Community Services, Polokwane Municipality , Cllr Joosuf Pemma, Chief Director, Transport Regulations Ms L Mulaudzi, Regional Head, Department of Justice and Constitutional Development Advocate W Sonti, National Prosecuting Authority represented by Mr Dan Mashukuca, police management led by Brigadier Miso Shumane: Head Office Visible Policing and Operations, Provincial Head for Proactive Crime Prevention Brigadier Mhlongo, Provincial Head: Inspectorate Brigadier Moloi, Acting Capricorn District Commissioner Brigadier Shirinda, Station Commander of Mankweng Brigadier Mathabatha, Civilian Secretariat for Police Service, Ms Lindiwe Chauke and Deputy Provincial Chairperson of CPF Mr Patrick Lebogo. Mr. Victor Kgomoeswana, Executive Director of Marketing and Communication, opened the session, emphasizing the importance of student safety both on and off campus. Brigadier Mhlongo highlighted the forum’s objectives, which include promoting safety awareness, reducing crime, and fostering a culture of responsibility among students and staff. Brigadier Shumane presented on the Learning Environment Safety Framework, addressing the significant challenges posed by crime and violence in educational settings. Key discussions during the summit included: 1. Background: The impact of crime on educational environments, affecting student’s emotional and psychological well-being. 2. Challenges: Examination of current safety measures and operational challenges faced by institutions. 3. Purpose: Development of effective safety solutions aligned with SAPS’s Community-Cantered Policing approach. Other presentations focused on gender-based violence, legislative frameworks, and risk factors associated with such violence. Colonel Ledwaba from Visible Police and Operations presented on Legislative Framework, where he provided an overview of GBVF and related legislative framework, SAPS mandate in relation to the implementation of GBVF legislations, and how it is connected to the Safety Structures within the Institutions of Higher Learning. Acting Capricorn District Commissioner, Brigadier Shirinda, in his address, highlighted that the launch is a collaborative endeavour that optimises the SAPS’s dedication to fostering a secure environment conducive to learning and personal development. He said while we uphold the right to peaceful protest and voice grievances, it is imperative to address instances where such actions escalate into violence or unlawful behaviour. The forum concluded with Cllr Joosuf Pemma emphasizing the need for practical results and the importance of a safe learning environment for all students In his keynote address, he said: “This forum must be a functional forum. We are not here for just talk shows, and we wish to see the results. In a world that is often filled with tribulations, the need for safety on campus is more critical than ever. Every student, every faculty member deserves to learn in an environment that is not only nurturing but free from fear. Today, we are taking a pivotal step in transforming a vision into reality. Campus safety is a promise to our community, rooted in awareness, deliberations, and effective response. Awareness is our first line of defence. By equipping our campus community with vital information about safety protocols and resources, we empower each individual to take charge of their own safety,” The newly established CCSF includes representatives from various community and law enforcement bodies, demonstrating a united commitment to enhancing safety within the university community. These members are; Station Commander of Mankweng Brigadier Mathabatha, representatives of Mankweng Community Crime Fighting Structures, Home Affairs, Department of Justice, Community Safety, National Prosecuting Authority, Mankweng Taxi Association, Traditional Council and Correctional Services. Ends
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