Imagine a child whose world has shrunk to the edges of a wheelchair, the silence of a classroom without books, or the weight of a school day spent in worn-out shoes. Now imagine that same child arriving at Tembalethu Special School to receive brand-new stationery, a clean school uniform, and a pair of sturdy school shoes – simple yet meaningful gifts that send a powerful message: you matter.
That vision became a reality when Pollsmoor Management Area concluded Child Protection Week with a community outreach programme that transformed commitment into tangible hope.
South Africa observed Child Protection Week from 29 May to 5 June 2026 under the theme, “Working Together to End Violence Against Children.” The campaign mobilises government, communities, families, and civil society to protect children from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violence.
Last year, Deputy Minister of Correctional Services, Ms Lindiwe Ntshalintshali, visited Tembalethu Special School in the Western Cape, leading to the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) adopting the school. Since then, DCS has donated educational supplies and conducted clean-up campaigns to support the school community.
Pollsmoor Management Area has ensured that the Deputy Minister’s commitment continues to translate into meaningful action.
Located in Gugulethu, Tembalethu Special School focuses on supporting children with disabilities by providing essential educational resources and opportunities. As part of the outreach programme, DCS donated school shoes and stationery to learners in need. These contributions reflect the Department’s commitment to promoting the well-being, dignity, and development of children, while ensuring that vulnerable learners can participate fully in their education.
The event marked the culmination of Child Protection Week activities and highlighted DCS’s commitment to protecting vulnerable members of society, particularly children. It also reinforced the campaign’s call for collective action to create safer environments where children can learn, thrive, and reach their full potential.
One of the guest speakers, Ms Vuyokazi Nguqu, who lives with a disability, inspired learners by encouraging them not to allow their disabilities to define or limit them. She reminded them that everyone is equal before God and emphasised the importance of education as a pathway to success.
Pollsmoor Area Commissioner (AC), Ms Ntomboxolo Kungune, thanked everyone who contributed to the success of the event. She encouraged those present not to grow weary of doing good, noting that collective effort can achieve remarkable results.
“The day is about the children, and these are very important people. Indeed, it is a rebirth of our relationship. I take my hat off to the teachers of Tembalethu Special School for your special love and care for others,” said AC Kungune.
The Principal of Tembalethu Special School, Ms Yolanda Luphondo, delivered the closing remarks and expressed gratitude to God for His endless blessings. She thanked everyone who contributed to the success of the initiative and reflected on the power of a shared vision.
She remarked that when God gives a vision to one person and that vision is shared with others, it continues to grow and never dies.
Ms Luphondo also commended the Department of Correctional Services for embracing and supporting the school’s vision of exposing learners to opportunities beyond their immediate environment. In closing, she said the gesture had made history and that the learners would benefit greatly from the partnership for years to come.