Youth Empowerment Workshop at Hoërskool De Aar

During October 2024 Sister Jane, from Social Services contacted De Aar High School to launch a workshop with learners at the local high schools.

On Friday, January 24, 2025, De Aar High School opened its doors for a dynamic VEP (Victim Empowerment Program)- workshop aimed at Grade 8 and 9 learners.

The workshop, which provides an important educational- and life skills opportunity for young people, was presented in collaboration with local Social services.

The program was spread over six sessions of 45 minutes each and addressed some of the most pressing issues young people face today.

Among the themes were:

Substance Abuse: Where learners learned more about the dangers and consequences of drugs and alcohol.

Role Models and Goal Setting: A session that emphasized the importance of positive role models and the formulation of life goals.

Bullying Behaviour: Strategies were presented on how to deal with, and prevent, bully behaviour.

Domestic Violence: The impact of domestic violence was discussed, as well as resources provided for victims.

Decision Making: A session on how to make healthy, informed choices.

Violence: The dangers of violence and how to resolve conflict peacefully, highlighted.

The workshop was presented by experts in each field and presented a positive, interactive approach to engage learners. According to the school principal, Mr. Johan Koen the aim of the workshop is to equip learners with the skills and knowledge they need to face challenges and be successful future citizens.

We believe that such programmes are crucial to promoting a healthy, safe environment for our young people.

The learners described the day as educational and inspiring. One of the Grade 9 learners said, “I learned a lot about how to deal with tricky situations and how important it is to make good choices. It opened my eyes to things that I had not taken seriously before.”

This workshop is a testament to De Aar High School's commitment to the development of their learners, both academically and as future leaders.