…By Judah Olanisebee for TDPel Media. A 14-Year-Old Girl’s Aspirations and Reflections After Arrest
During the launch of Child Protection Week at the KwaZulu-Natal Child and Youth Care Centre (CYCC), a 14-year-old girl, whose identity remains anonymous, shared her dreams and aspirations.
Having been arrested for allegedly stabbing her boyfriend’s ex-girlfriend, she expressed her desire to complete grade 7 and pursue a career in medicine.
A Life Altered by a Crime:
The young girl, who was apprehended on January 17, 2023, acknowledged that her life has undergone a significant change since the incident occurred.
The weight of her actions weighs heavily on her conscience, and she seeks a way to move forward.
Remorse and Redemption:
Another participant in the event was a 16-year-old boy who had been arrested for rape.
Expressing genuine remorse, he publicly apologized to his victim, acknowledging the gravity of his actions and the irreparable harm he had caused.
Words of Encouragement and Forgiveness:
Deputy Minister Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu from the Department of Social Development attended the event to interact with the children.
She offered words of encouragement, emphasizing that mistakes are a part of life.
Encouraging self-acceptance and forgiveness, she urged the children not to let their past define them.
She also advocated for Restorative Justice, a theory focused on reconciliation and reintegration of offenders into society rather than punishment.
Restorative Measures and Child Protection:
The Department of Social Development plays a vital role in the provision of care and reintegration services for children in conflict with the law.
In accordance with the Children’s Act 38 of 2005, the department has established CYCCs, which act as residential facilities for children awaiting trial or sentencing, as well as those who have already been sentenced under the Child Justice Act 75 of 2008.
Society’s Responsibility:
The department’s spokesperson, Lumka Oliphant, highlighted the significance of the Children’s Act and the establishment of CYCCs.
These facilities provide a safe and supportive environment for children involved in the legal system.
Furthermore, the Child Protection Week campaign, now a year-long initiative, calls upon society as a whole to prioritize the well-being and protection of children.
Coordinated action across multiple sectors is essential to ensure the safety and security of children throughout South Africa.
Conclusion:
The stories shared during the launch of Child Protection Week at the KwaZulu-Natal CYCC serve as a reminder of the importance of compassion, understanding, and support for children in conflict with the law.
By promoting restorative measures and focusing on rehabilitation rather than retribution, society can strive towards a future where the potential of every child is nurtured and protected.
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