| 2025/04/05 |
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Brits, North West The Executive Committee member of SAPS and Acting DNC Support, Lieutenant General Lineo Nkhuoa The Executive Committee member of SAPSET and Provincial Commissioner Limpopo, Lt Gen Hadebe The SAPSET Board member, Dr Shibambo The Telkom Foundation’s Mr Nathi Kunene Dimension Data’s Mr Matjokana Liberty’s Mr Modibane Fundi representative, Mr Siphiwe Masuku All the chaplains from various provinces All members of the SAPS Ladies and gentlemen Good afternoon! It is truly a privilege to stand before you today as we celebrate the strength, resilience and potential of the children supported by the South African Police Service Education Trust (SAPSET). Today I stand before a group of incredible young minds – children who carry the hopes and dreams of the future. Each of you is special, each of you is powerful and each of you has a purpose in this world. You are not just the children of police officers; you are children of heroes and because of that, you too have the power to be great. Your parents made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. They dedicated their lives to protecting our communities, ensuring that we can live in a safer, more just society. We are and will forever be indebted to them for their service and for leading by example. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to their legacy by investing in what matters most – the education and future of their children. You have lost loved ones who dedicated their lives to protecting our country, parents who wore their police uniforms with pride. While they may no longer be physically here, their strength, courage and love live in you. Each of you carriers within you a light – a promise for a brighter future. Education is the key that will unlock doors of opportunity, allowing you to grow into strong, capable individuals who can make a difference in our world, just like your parents did. Remember that the greatest achievements are born from perseverance, hard work and determination. There is a world of opportunities out there waiting for you to just grab onto what you like. The SAPS, which is your home, has many career paths that you can choose from. There is a wide range of career opportunities to choose from for individuals passionate about serving and protecting their communities. Do not give in to the world of drugs and alcohol because you have lost a parent and feel that you have no one to turn to. You are not alone. The SAPSET, your families, your teachers and the entire community stand behind you, cheering you on every step of the way. We believe in your dreams, and we are here to help you reach them. As we move forward, let us remember that education is not just about books and exams – it is about shaping character, nurturing leadership and building a nation that honours the past while embracing the future. Let me quote from our former President, Nelson Mandela when he said: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”. So, dream big, work hard and never forget that you are part of a family that believes in you. Your parents were heroes and now it is your turn to be heroes in your own way. Make them proud and make yourselves proud and show the world that nothing can stop you from achieving your dreams. May you rise with confidence, walk with purpose and shine with the knowledge that you are capable of achieving greatness. I THANK YOU!
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