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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

Memorial lecture: Repositioning of the Free State Provincial Government
2005-08-29

The repositioning of the Free State Provincial Government to respond to the 21st century demands is the topic of the University of the Free State’s (UFS) JN Boshoff Memorial Lecture that takes place on campus next week.

The lecture will be delivered by Dr Charles Nwaila, Director-General of the Free State Provincial Government and Vice-Chairperson of the UFS Council and will take place on Thursday 8 September 2005 at 18:00 in the CR Swart Auditorium on campus.

The title of the lecture is Free State Government repositioning itself to respond to the 21st century demands with special focus on the human capital edge.

Dr Nwaila obtained his BA in 1984 at the University of the North, his BA Honors (English) in 1987 at Wits University, his MA (English) in 1990 at Durham University (UK) and D Litt (English) in 1997 from the University of Pretoria.  

Dr Nwaila is also Chairperson of the Forum of Heads of Departments, Governance and Administration and Secretary of the Executive Council.

Previously, Dr Nwaila was the Superintendent-General of the Free State Department of Education from 2002 to February 2005. Dr Nwaila also served in government as Chief Director in the Gauteng Department of Education. Dr Nwaila is highly experienced and his career includes serving as a headmaster in rural and urban schools, lecturer at the Soweto College of Education, and supervisor at ABET centres.

Enquiries can be directed to Ms Joan Nel at (051) 401-9301.

Media release

Issued by:  Lacea Loader
   Media Representative
   Tel:  (051) 401-2584
   Cell:  083 645 2454
   E-mail:  loaderl.stg@mail.uovs.ac.za

29 August 2005

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