More than 300 members of Representative Councils of Learners (RCLs) will gather in Worcester tomorrow (Wednesday 29 September) to discuss issues of common concern and to take the first steps towards forming a provincial association of RCLs.

Topics will include school safety, learner behaviour and career guidance, among other educational matters. The meeting is being convened under the auspices of the Western Cape Education Department (WCED).

Today, the learners will go through an election process to inaugurate an interim provincial body, which will represent the learners and look after their interests.

This interim provincial executive council will work towards the finalisation of a constitution, policy framework, budget and programme of action for the following year. A final provincial executive council will be elected next year.

This body will serve as a mouthpiece for all the learners in the province, and represent and convey their hopes, aspirations, views and needs.

The objectives are to promote a common provincial vision and respect and tolerance towards all the diverse racial, cultural, linguistic and religious groups of learners in the province.

In his opening address yesterday, Western Cape Education MEC Cameron Dugmore said this was an historic occasion. "To my knowledge, there has been no such forum in any other province or here in the Western Cape."

"With this initiative we in the Western Cape are actively building a Learning Home for All. This is an important step in our strategy to develop social capital, and to promote the rights and responsibilities of all learners."

MEC Dugmore said that with this initiative, learners can become involve with issues directly affecting them. It was also about presenting opportunities for young people to develop leadership and organisational skills, which they can apply in their adult years.

Said Brian Schreuder, Deputy Director-General: Education Planning and Development of the WCED, said: "We cannot underestimate the importance of this gathering. You represent the youth in our schools and the future of this country.

"Many of you will be future leaders in all sorts of fields. Our hopes and dreams for the future depend on what you decide to do, starting today.

"Ultimately, you will shape the future, based on the values you already have, and the values you are still discovering."

For enquiries, contact Gert Witbooi: 082 550 3938, or gwitbooi@pgwc.gov.za.