A group of young men from Philippi and the surrounding areas graduated on Friday 22 July after completing a fatherhood training course.
The ceremony which was conducted by Cesvi organisation was held at their offices in Philippi.
At least 15 learners, from 18 years and up, received their certificates after completing the five weeks training.
Cesvi is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) that assists people with social issues and also fights for human rights.
One of the trainees Vuyisa Masumpa (30), from Site B, said the training was educational. He stated that he learnt a lot about parenting and being a father. “We were taught about parenting skills. We were also encouraged to prioritise our families which includes our children,” said the father of a two year old girl. He stated that it is vital to keep promises to the children.
Masumpa, who was raised by a single parent, urged men to be connected with their children. “I was raised by a single parent, I don’t want that to happen to my child. I took an oath to be involved in her life. Growing up without a father is painful and sometimes makes a child rebellious,” he said. He described the training as bringing change in society.
Masumpa appealed to mothers to avoid breaking down a relationship between fathers and their children. “Even if the father doesn’t have money, they must give us a chance to bond with our children. Our children need us as their fathers,” he urged.
Cesvi programme manager Luvuyo Zahele said their aim is to equip the fathers and those who aspire to be fathers to have required skills of fatherhood.
He said some of the issues that were addressed included the current phenomenon of absent fathers.
“Looking at how absent fathers contribute to the cycle of abuse and neglect of children by young fathers is shocking. It creates a moral decay and lack of self-discipline,” said Zahele. He said the training was twice a week Tuesday and Friday.
