By Nozipho Dlamini

Khomanani, the government’s HIV and Aids communication campaign, has begun a back-to-school drive to raise awareness about available services to assist vulnerable children.

Thami Skenjana, director of the Government’s Aids Action Plan and Khomanani spokesperson said January was the start of a new school year whereby children, especially those from child-headed households, experienced different challenges.

“Khomanani’s ‘Caring Together for Children’ drive aims to coincide with this critical period to promote available social safety networks such as welfare services provided by Government,” said Skenjana.

She further urged teachers and caregivers to play a role in identifying children who were at risk.

“By talking and listening to children, they can spot the warning signals such as hunger, lack of concentration, illness, scratches and bruising as signs of abuse, fatigue and depression.

“They can also observe poor school attendance.

“Once these signs are noticed, the next step for teachers and caregivers is to access available social services and thus help affected learners remain in school,” she explained.

For more information about assistance that is available, contact the Department of Social Development Helpline on 0800 601 011 or the Department of Education Helpline on 0800 202 933.

For additional information about HIV and Aids call the Aids Helpline on 0800 012 322 or visit the website www.aidsinfo.co.za

The public can also assist by donating school uniforms, stationery, food and books to their local schools.

Source: BuaNews