Lentswe, Mahikeng - The North West Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), in partnership with the Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committee (PICC) and various stakeholders, concluded a crucial State of Readiness session in preparation for the upcoming 2025 Summer Initiation Season. The session, which took place on Wednesday November 12, aimed to significantly strengthen coordination amongst all role players. The central focus is on ensuring that comprehensive precautionary measures are implemented to reduce the proliferation of illegal initiation schools, guarantee compliance with regulations, and ultimately safeguard the lives of initiates throughout the season.
Key stakeholders, including the PICC, the Department of Health, the South African Police Service (SAPS), and local municipalities, were in attendance. The meeting served as a platform to thoroughly review outcomes from the previous initiation season and establish necessary corrective measures to enhance safety protocols.
A significant outcome from the session was the official release by the PICC of the names of all approved registered schools, along with the official commencement dates for the season. This information will now guide communities and parents in ensuring their children attend only legally sanctioned schools.
