Eastern Cape Division Children’s Ministry workers, together with Officers—a total of 35 delegates—underwent Protective Behaviours Training led by Captain Sphephelo Sibisi and Captain Mandisa Ntuli at East London Corps. The training aimed to empower participants with skills across the 16 focus areas of Protective Behaviours.
The training began with delegates sharing their expectations for the two-day session. Some expectations included learning how to effectively communicate the Protective Behaviours programme, such as “how to talk to a child?” The training was a success, and it was thrilling to see a room filled with men and women dedicated to the safety of children in Corps and communities. The group was very interactive, participative, and asked many relevant questions.
Participants understood that protecting children and empowering them with skills to handle various forms of difficult and abusive situations would challenge certain cultural norms and practices. In concluding the training, participants sat in groups and prepared lessons for presentation. It was evident from the presentations that they understood the material that was facilitated to them.
An implementation plan was advised by the Divisional Commander, Major Aubey Hatukupa. Participants are to first implement the programme in their Corps during Sunday School, Junior Miss and Junior Boys sessions before approaching schools with the eight-week programme. All delegates received certificates of participation.
