Manenberg pupils explore police careers

Manenberg high school pupils have had a chance to explore career options in various branches of the SAPS.

The careers day at Phoenix High School on Tuesday last week was organised by the Manenberg SAPS and a Western Cape Education Department staffer, and it drew pupils from several schools in the area.

The pupils learnt about opportunities in various police units, including the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks; Crime Scene Management; the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS); the Explosives Unit; the Mounted Unit; the Anti-Gang Unit; the Flying Squad and the Air Wing.

Manenberg SAPS spokesman Captain Ian Bennett said they hoped to inspire the youth.

“For every young person, life is a road of choices, and we as SAPS want to give the youth more choices in life. This is our way of showing the youth that there are a lot more choices in life than being caught up or involved with gangs. SAPS realise that talking is just not enough; we also have to show the community what choices look like. Every child has dreams, but what they ultimately do to earn money is most important.”

The highlight of the day was when a police helicopter landed in Phoenix High School’s parking lot.

Manenberg police chief Brigadier Sanele Zama spoke about how he had risen above difficult circumstances to be where he was today and he had made his parents proud.

Shamira Goolam, a WCED employee who helped to arrange the event in her private capacity, told the pupils to make the most of the information.

“Each one of you is capable of reaching your potential. You need to take your life and your decisions seriously. We can only help you. I’m not saying it’s going to be easy, You need to persevere, commit, and dedicate yourself to your goal. You are not a product of your environment, rather you decide who you are by the choices you make.”