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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

Business breakfast nurtures key partnerships
2014-09-05

 

Dr Reuel Khoza

In growing and nurturing key projects and initiatives, the university hosted more than fifty partners and alumni at a business breakfast in Sandton, Johannesburg on 27 August 2014. The occasion was conceived by Institutional Advancement in collaboration with the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and Rector.

Discussions focused on the central role which institutional partnerships play in growing the university’s capacity to extend its reach in supporting schools and growing technologically-based educational tools for disadvantaged communities around the Free State and the country at large.

In his remarks, Prof Jansen thanked partners for their continued support and for joining hands with the university in supporting key projects and initiatives that have improved the level of education in the Free State, provided skills development and nurtured young leaders.

The guest of honour Dr Reuel Khoza, non-Executive Chairman of Nedbank and co-host Dr Marcus Ingram, Director of Institutional Advancement, discussed the role of meaningful leadership in the African context and social and political structures that are instrumental in developing future leaders. As stated simply but powerfully by Dr Khoza, “If not us, then who?”

In attendance were heads of corporations, key role players in partner organisations and NGOs, alumni and Corporate Social Investment specialists from leading financial institutions. 
 

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