Empowering Youth: Hoërskool Silverton Hosts ‘Boys2Men’
Hoërskool Silverton hosted a significant event titled “Boys2Men” on Saturday, June 15, aimed at educating boy learners on the dangers of illegal substances and other critical issues.
The initiative, led by the School Governing Body (SGB), invited learners along with their parents, preferable fathers, uncles, and other male role models, to engage in discussions designed to build these young learners into responsible men.
The event addressed a wide range of topics including Gender-Based Violence (GBV), substance abuse, hygiene, nutrition, and healthcare. According to the SGB, this gathering was organized in response to growing concerns from the school’s disciplinary committee. The committee noted a troubling trend with ten disciplinary hearings in the first two terms of the year, eight of which were related to illegal substances, including use and peddling on school premises.
Learners at Silverton Hoërskool Educated on the Dangers of Illegal Substances
“Parents, we are really concerned,” said SGB chairperson Collin Damans. “We are close to having a pandemic of issues related to illegal substances.”
If our learners aren’t smoked up, they are either caught selling illegal substances ranging from weed and unidentified pills to space cookies (dagga-laced cookies).” Damans emphasized the impact of substance abuse on the school environment, citing constant class disruptions, fights among learners, and odd behavior resulting from drug use.
Damans highlighted the necessity of this intervention, stressing the importance of involving parents and learners in conversations about the dangers and impact of substance abuse. The programme was made more informative with the participation of the Thandanani Drop Inn Centre, a Mamelodi-based foundation. Founder Thabo Kgotsi shared a heartfelt speech about the 11-year-old foundation, which was established by the youth in response to social ills affecting Mamelodi residents.
Kgotsi spoke about their Narcotics Anonymous programme, aimed at helping ex-drug users reclaim their lives. “The ex-users who have decided to take this step are assisted at the centre, and more addicts are encouraged to join,” he said. Kgotsi noted that the centre’s impact is visible throughout Mamelodi, serving as a hub for addressing social ills in the community.
The event also featured motivational speeches by internationally acclaimed ICAN 4IR (previously ICAN Foundation) representatives Sibusiso Khumalo and Jabulani Maseko. Their presentation on financial literacy, including trading and financial management, was highly informative and inspiring for the attendees.
Following the speeches, five learners from each grade shared their highlights from the event and expressed a desire for more such gatherings with greater attendance from their peers. The event concluded with a friendly soccer match featuring teams composed of parents, guardians, learners, and staff from Hoërskool Silverton, fostering a sense of community and unity.
Damans extended his gratitude to all stakeholders and attendees, acknowledging their dedication and hard work in making the day a success. “The event achieved its goal of addressing critical issues affecting young boys and fostering a supportive community environment. The insights shared, the stories told, and the connections made during this event will undoubtedly have a lasting positive impact on all who attended,” he said.
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