In a society where substance abuse and criminal activities can be tempting for young people, the City of Johannesburg took steps to provide a safe and secure environment for its future leaders during the recent school holidays. Through the City’s annual school holiday programme, children from across Johannesburg’s seven regions (A-G) participated in a range of activities that not only prevented them from engaging in unlawful activities but also helped broaden and cultivate their social skills and interests, said Dr Karabo Semenya, the assistant director for liaison and public relations.
The City’s holiday programme comprised a variety of activities, including aerobics, basketball and netball development, puppet shows, and arts and crafts. To ensure inclusivity, the municipality used its sports and recreation centres as well as its libraries across the metro to promote its “No Child Left Behind Policy”.
“As children explored their own creativity and built independence in a safe and secure environment, they also developed skills and interests in sports and literature,” said Dr Semenya.
For children with special hobbies or interests, the holiday programme provided the perfect opportunity to develop their skills further. Extroverted children enjoyed extra social interaction, while introverted ones made friends at their own pace while enjoying the activities they love.
“These activities will continue to water seeds that have already been planted in these young children. If your child has a special hobby or interest they want to develop further, the holiday programme is the perfect solution.”
The power of storytelling was showcased during the Library Week celebrations, where libraries popped up across the City, featuring captivating puppet shows.
Books came to life at Alexandra Plaza as Region E libraries hosted celebrations at Lebogang Mpho crèche.
Communities came together to share in the joy of reading, demonstrating the impact of such activities in cultivating a love of literature and learning.
“This does not only prevent children from participating in unlawful activities, but it also helps broaden and cultivate their skills and interests in sports and literature. Holiday programmes for kids provide opportunities to unplug as they explore their own creativity and build independence in a safe and secure environment,” Dr Semenya explained.
The annual school holiday programme took advantage of the two-week break from school, engaging children in different sporting and recreational activities.
Dr Semenya says by providing these curated activities, the City believes in and lives by its motto, “Be the change you want to see in your kids”.
For children living in Johannesburg, the school holiday programme was a welcome haven where they enjoyed themselves, made friends, and developed skills and interests that will benefit them for years to come.
The school holiday programme is a testament to the City’s commitment to building a better future for its children and youth.
Written by Vonani Michelle Maluleke
17/04/2023