The City of Cape Town’s Metro Police Training Academy is on a recruitment drive to push up the number of Volunteer Youth Cadets.

A hundred learners from five schools attended a leadership camp recently – some of whom could potentially be the newest Youth Cadet recruits.  Forty of the learners will now be recruited to join the Youth Cadet Programme!

The Mayoral Committee Member of Safety and Security JP Smith says they are extremely proud of the Youth Cadet Programme.

“It is social crime prevention in action, and we have seen a number of young people flourish as a result and become leaders in their communities. In the last few years, we have also started offering training like basic peace officer and first-aid training, and even driving lessons. This gives our cadets access to a range of opportunities as they transition from school into the working world.”

The Youth Cadet Programme was established in 2013, on the back of numerous successful Metro Police youth camps that focused on positive youth development.

Learners who showed the most improvement in behaviour and discipline after attending the camps were selected to register as youth cadets. The Youth Cadet Programme started with a first intake of 32 members.

The new recruits will increase the number of cadets to more than 200.

Smith says a community can only benefit from individuals who possess a positive spirit and good leadership qualities.

“These youth cadets have the potential to act as role-models and to effect change in their social and community circles. Many have already done us proud with their achievements and willingness to exploit the opportunities that have come their way and I encourage the new recruits to follow in their footsteps.”