By: Hlakaniphile Vilakazi
The ISRC of Tshwane University of Technology Soshanguve Campus hosted a GBV dialogue on May 17, 2023. This dialogue seeks to empower all students with the knowledge and tools to combat GBV, with a particular emphasis on engaging male students as crucial allies in this important cause. This GBV dialogue serves as a platform for students to come together, share experiences, and engage in meaningful conversations surrounding this pressing issue.
Shepard Khoza, the ISRC President, said, “We always advise people, even if they feel threatened by the perpetrator, to come and talk to us, and we keep the information confidential until we find help for them.” He further mentioned that in the Department of Law, they also deal with maintenance cases, and there was a case where the father of the baby threatened to kill the baby if they continued with the case. They also follow the legal procedures when dealing with such cases. “In these cases, we also work with SAPS,” he added.
According to Katlego Arnold Mashego, the obvious purpose of the event is to address issues on campus, with a specific focus on having conversations with males. “I think we are either victims or perpetrators, so we don’t really get a chance to express different views as victims of Gender-Based Violence,” said Katlego. He further emphasized the need for frequent conversations with male students to encourage them to speak up about the issues they face daily.
Onalerona Ditlhake, the ISRC Deputy Secretary, stated that this program was organized by the ISRC of Tshwane University of Technology Soshanguve Campus, aiming to remind students that GBV is a war that needs to be conquered by them. “Especially first years, we wanted to teach them to be aware of what is happening in Varsity,” Onalerona said.
