BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MANZINI – At a time when young people face growing risks from bullying, substance abuse and peer pressure, Lubombo pupils are being urged to make responsible choices and prioritise their safety as community policing campaigns bring awareness lessons directly into schools.
Such campaigns are important in helping children recognise dangerous behaviour, understand the consequences of their actions and develop the confidence to resist harmful influences. Through school-based engagements, officers from Simunye and Lubulini Police Stations are working to promote safer learning environments by educating pupils on bullying, substance abuse, peer pressure, water safety and road safety.
At Lusoti Primary School, the campaign was led by Traffic Officer Constable Xolile Ngwenya and Crime Prevention Officer Constable Mlungisi Sikhosana. At Dlakadla Primary School, Traffic Officer Sergeant Mamba and Crime Prevention Officer Constable Bhembe conducted the sessions.
During the engagements, officers cautioned pupils against bullying, which they said was becoming common among schoolchildren. They emphasised the importance of treating others with respect and avoiding behaviour that intimidates, humiliates or harms fellow pupils.
Substance abuse was another concern, with officers noting that some children were engaging in vaping despite their young age. Pupils were warned against experimenting with harmful substances and encouraged to make choices that protect their health and well-being.
The officers also addressed peer pressure, particularly among younger pupils who imitate older children in an attempt to fit in or gain acceptance. Pupils were encouraged to think independently and resist pressure to engage in inappropriate behaviour rather than compromise their safety to please others.
With extremely high temperatures being experienced in the Lubombo Region, officers warned pupils against swimming in canals to cool off. They highlighted the dangers of entering unsafe water bodies, particularly during hot weather when children may be tempted to seek relief from the heat. Pupils were urged to avoid swimming in dangerous places where their lives could be at risk.
Road safety education focused on helping pupils understand pedestrian responsibilities, use roads safely and behave appropriately when travelling as passengers in motor vehicles.
Traffic officers also warned against boarding overloaded scholar transport and public transport vehicles, stressing the importance of prioritising safety when travelling.
The school visits form part of ongoing community policing initiatives by the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), aimed at safeguarding pupils and emaSwati through education, prevention and community engagement.
By taking safety messages directly to schools, the initiative seeks to raise awareness among children at an early age, encourage responsible behaviour and contribute to safer learning environments and communities.
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(Courtesy Pic)
