By: Peneyambeko Jonas
Security guards are among the most overlooked and underappreciated workers in our society.
Every day, they stand at entrances, patrol buildings, protect businesses, schools, hospitals, and homes, yet many people treat them with little respect.
This attitude needs to change.
The reality is that many security guards are educated, capable, and skilled individuals who have taken these jobs because of limited employment opportunities.
In a country where unemployment remains a serious challenge, many people work in professions that are different from what they studied for simply to earn an honest living and support their families.
Holding a security guard position does not make a person less intelligent, less ambitious, or less deserving of dignity.
Sadly, security guards often face insults, bullying, and unfair treatment from members of the public.
Some are shouted at for simply enforcing rules, while others are ignored or looked down upon.
Such behaviour reflects poorly on society. Respect should not be determined by a person’s job title but by their humanity.
In addition to poor treatment, many security guards endure long working hours for low wages.
They spend nights away from their families, work during holidays, and face potential dangers while protecting people and property.
Despite these sacrifices, their compensation often does not reflect the importance of their work.
As a society, we must recognize the value of security guards.
Employers should provide fair wages and better working conditions, while the public should treat them with courtesy and respect.
A simple greeting, a thank you, or basic human decency can make a significant difference.
Security guards are not invisible.
They are fathers, mothers, graduates, breadwinners, and hardworking citizens striving to make an honest living.
They deserve appreciation, fair treatment, and respect. It is time we changed the way we see them and acknowledged the important role they play in keeping our communities safe.
