Chris Hani Learners Compete for SAPS Junior Commissioner Role

Learners from across the Chris Hani District gathered this week for a unique competition aimed at strengthening school safety and building partnerships between young people and law enforcement.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) hosted the Junior District Commissioner Competition on 5 March 2026, bringing together learners from 26 high schools across various policing precincts in the district.

The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts by SAPS to promote the message of “No Crime at Schools” and encourage learners to play an active role in creating safer learning environments.

Youth Leadership Against School Crime

During the competition, learners delivered presentations on the theme “School Safety.” The presentations focused on challenges facing schools and how young leaders can help prevent crime, bullying and other safety risks.

The competition aims to appoint learner representatives who will serve as a link between SAPS and schools, helping communicate safety concerns and promoting crime prevention among fellow learners.

By involving learners directly, the programme seeks to encourage youth leadership and responsibility in addressing crime and violence affecting schools.

Strong Multi-Department Support

The event was led by Acting Komani SAPS Station Commander Colonel Simayile and included adjudicators and representatives from several government departments and community organisations.

Role players participating in the judging panel included representatives from:

• Department of Social Development

• Department of Community Safety

• Department of Education

• Spiritual Crime Prevention

• South African Police Service

Officials said collaboration between different departments and communities is essential in addressing crime and improving school safety across the district.

Competition Results

After the presentations were evaluated, the following learners were announced as winners:

• 1st Position – Junior District Commissioner: Siphosethu Mbityana, St James High School (Cofimvaba)

• 2nd Position – Deputy District Commissioner: Khazimla Sam, Maria Louw High School (Mlungisi)

• 3rd Position – District Vispol Commander: Sinesipho Mnyamana, Thozana Senior Secondary School (Glen Grey)

• 4th Position – District Detectives Commander: Kamvelihle Mtyhobile, Sixishe Senior Secondary School (Ezibeleni)

The learners will serve as youth ambassadors who work with police and schools to promote safer school environments.

Commitment to Safer Schools

Following the announcement of the results, newly appointed Junior District Commissioner Siphosethu Mbityana expressed gratitude and committed to making a positive impact in addressing crime affecting learners.

Support messages were also delivered by District Manager of Community Safety Mr Sikwebu and Department of Education School Safety representative Mr P. Nkele, who highlighted the importance of youth-led initiatives in strengthening safety programmes in schools.

Officials said empowering learners to become advocates for safety can help build stronger relationships between communities, schools and law enforcement.

Community Partnerships Key

On behalf of the District Commissioner, Colonel Mtatase thanked all stakeholders, organisers and participating schools for contributing to the success of the event.

Authorities emphasised that continued collaboration between SAPS, government departments, educators and learners remains vital in ensuring schools remain safe spaces for learning.

The programme forms part of broader national and provincial initiatives aimed at preventing crime in educational environments and promoting positive youth leadership.