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14 June 2018 Photo iStock
Dealing with the trauma of sexual assault
University life is supposed to be one of the most enjoyable times of a person’s life. Unfortunately, for some this is the time they may fall victims to sexual assault.
 
The term sexual assault has shockingly become normalised in society and has become a common threat to university students. The University of the Free State (UFS) through its sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, and sexual violence policy strongly condemns any form of sexual abuse. Dr Melissa Barnaschone, Director at Student Counselling and Development (UFS) says the university cares for the health and wellbeing of students and provides necessary support for victims of sexual assault and trauma.
 
It is unfortunate that sexual assault comes with many misconceptions that often shift responsibility and blame from the perpetrator to the victim. “It is important to always remember that it is not your fault; do not blame yourself,” says Dr Barnaschone. Helpguide.Org: Trusted guide to mental & emotional health says sexual assault leaves psychological wounds and sometimes long-lasting health challenges. Such trauma can severely affect a person’s ability to cope with daily academic, social, professional, and personal responsibilities.
 
Any sexual violence is a crime and as a victim, you are not to blame. Healing is achieved when you start to believe that you are not responsible for what happened to you. Visit Helpguide.Org for more information on post-traumatic stress disorder, trauma recovery tips and other related topics.

On this video clip, Dr Barnaschone shares some guidelines to deal with sexual assault and trauma: 

News Archive

Dr David Malapo motivates Qwaqwa staff
2009-06-24

 
Photo: Supplied 


 

If you are not growing, you are dying. These were the words of Dr David Malapo, teacher, pastor, motivational speaker and businessman, who addressed staff members and students from the Qwaqwa Campus as well as members of the community. Mr Billyboy Ramahlele, Director: Diversity, accompanied Dr Malapo to the campus.

Dr Malapo informed staff that it was possible to grow if one had a vision and a passion for what one wanted to achieve, as well as the willingness to take risks. He emphasised that it was necessary to grow, otherwise one would stagnate. “To grow you need to develop skills in active listening, effective communication and productivity,” he said.

According to him, only oneself can make positive decisions towards growth in one’s own life. “When you blame other people, you give up the power to change,” he said.

He also stated that trust was an inevitable element of growth. It means that you have to avoid pre-judging, treat people with respect, share information, admit mistakes and develop a caring attitude.

Both staff and students evaluated these motivational talks as a highlight-event of the first semester on the Qwaqwa calendar.
 

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