Western Cape Social Development Minister, Albert Fritz, has called on the youth to avoid a life of crime and get involved in constructive youth programmes. He was speaking at Westridge in Mitchells Plain during a school holiday event.

About 150 youths from the area converged on the Westridge Civic Hall where they engaged in various recreational activities. The program is aimed at inspiring the learners to find something useful to do during the school holidays.

The day was marked by fun activities including music, sport and cultural activities such as a Cape Town Has Talent competition, board games and a self-defense class with World Kung-Fu Champion, Muhamad Junaid Li.

Tuesday marks the beginning of the Department of Social Development’s school holiday programme aimed at providing alternative spaces and opportunities for youth, to keep them off the streets.

As Human Rights Day was celebrated this week, Minister Fritz also used the day to raise awareness amongst the youth about the need to defend their rights, through the symbolism of hosting a self-defense class.

The Minister had also extended an invitation to the inspiration Joel Greek, the recent winner of a global essay competition hosted by the Lions Clubs International and United Nations.

Joel (12), who hails from Kuilsriver, is a Grade 7 learner at the Athlone School for the Blind in Bellville South. His winning essay on “Shared Peace” was chosen from contestants from over 100 countries that form part of the Lions Clubs International network.

In his short address, Minister Fritz said: “As a department we will continue to support and empower you, our young people, with access to safe spaces where you can learn and have fun”.

VOC