24 Sep 2013

Students have been told that the fact that they have rights should not be used as an excuse to misbehave and impede on other people’s rights.

This was said by assistant council secretary, Mr Motshegetsi Gabosenkelwe during child welfare day commemoration recently. He told students that their rights were enshrined in the Children’s Act, but warned them not to abuse those rights.

“Rights go hand in hand with responsibilities. You must always heed the advice of your elders and stop being ill-mannered and boasting about having rights,” he said. Mr Gabosenkelwe said was addressing over 570 students from Makalamabedi, Mogolokwane and Chanoga primary schools.

He stated that the event was organised by the Ngamiland District child protection committee in partnership with Maun administrative authority. Mr Gabosenkelwe explained that the child protection committee comprised of different non-governmental organisations providing child centred services.

“These include Bana ba letsatsi, Thuso rehabilitation centre, Women against rape, Motse wa Tsholofelo, Place of joy and Feed a Child, just to name but a few,” he said. He said the child welfare day was meant to encourage people to learn about the rights of children and the Children’s Act of 2009, as well as other services provided for children in the district by different NGO’s. He applauded the organising committee for their efforts and urged them to go as far as Phuduhudu, Somelo and Khwai villages.

“Last year Sehithwa was fortunate enough to host the commemoration. This day provides an opportunity to meet, learn, discuss and resolve issues that affect children. We want to pave the way for better and improved service delivery to clients,” said Mr Gabosenkelwe. For her part, the child protection committee secretary Ms Eva Dambe said children and parents are not aware of the Children’s Act even though it was incepted as far back as 2009. ENDS