A fresh group of young leaders is beginning to take shape in Cape Town’s public safety efforts, following the recent recognition of over 80 youth cadets who were officially promoted this weekend, marking a milestone in a programme designed to shape discipline, leadership and future career pathways.
The ceremony, which was hosted at the Public Safety Training College, signalled more than a formal promotion.
Originally introduced in 2013 as part of the Metro Police Department’s outreach efforts, the youth cadet programme aims to guide learners toward constructive opportunities while strengthening community safety from the ground up.
According to the City of Cape Town, the latest intake saw 82 cadets advance into structured leadership roles, including divisional commanders, company commanders, unit and section commanders, and master cadets, each carrying defined responsibilities within the programme’s hierarchy.
Through collaboration between the City’s Safety and Security Directorate, the Western Cape Education Department and Safe Schools, learners are carefully selected based on leadership potential, school commitment and community involvement.
Cape {town} Etc Discount Alert! Unlock Cape Town’s best experiences for half the price! From unforgettable adventures to hidden gems and mouthwatering restaurants, these limited-time deals won’t last long. Snag your discount before they’re gone!
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security Alderman JP Smith highlighted the programme’s long-term impact.
‘The directorate has shown an incredible commitment to youth development within our Metro. It takes real discipline and a deep commitment to our youth to ensure programmes are supported a decade or more after it was first started. The value they add cannot simply be measured in numbers – every life changed through the cadet programme has a cascading effect that changes the course for siblings, family members and hopefully communities.’
He added that young participants often become role models within their neighbourhoods, influencing peers through pathways linked to Law Enforcement, Metro Police, Traffic Services and newer safety initiatives such as LEAP and Neighbourhood Safety Officers.
‘We’ve seen the impact a young inspirational person can have in their communities through Law Enforcement, Metro Police and Traffic, and more recently through LEAP and the NSOs. A salute of thanks goes to the college and those at the head, for their commitment to the cadet programme, the camps and developing the youth. I also extend my gratitude to the families, without whose support we won’t have the opportunity to engage with these young people and help them to shape their futures,’ Smith said.
Beyond ceremonial ranks, the programme follows a structured five-phase journey, beginning with recruitment and anti-crime awareness at schools and progressing through foundational training, development and leadership phases before culminating in work exposure and study opportunities.
Alongside the newly ranked seniors, 66 junior cadets are also undergoing training across a wide curriculum that stretches beyond traditional safety education.
Modules include navigation, agriculture, arts and culture, community service, communication skills, professional conduct, first aid and music.
Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp Channel for content worth tapping into! Click here to join!
Also read:
Picture: CoCT/Facebook
