Limpopo okays 276 initiation schools

Experts have decried traditional circumcision practices. File picture: Siegfreid Modola

Experts have decried traditional circumcision practices. File picture: Siegfreid Modola

Published Jun 12, 2014

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Polokwane - A total of 276 initiation schools have been approved in Limpopo, provincial police said on Thursday.

“Initiation schools are set to start on June 14 and conclude their activities on July 18, 2014,” Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi said.

“Starting such a school before the set date or continuing with the initiation school activities beyond 18 July will render the institution illegal and police will vigorously deal with (transgressors).”

He said 19 schools were approved in the Vhembe district, 85 in Sekhukhune, 60 in Mopani, 43 in Capricorn, and 69 in Waterberg.

A provincial joint priority committee made up of the departments of health, co-operative governance, human settlements, and traditional affairs and other parties had been established to oversee and monitor the running of the schools.

“Parents are urged to verify the legitimacy of the initiation school with their local traditional authorities before sending their children,” Mulaudzi said.

“Police will also not tolerate the abduction of boys into these initiation schools in the disguise of culture and tradition.”

Sapa

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