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05 September 2023 | Story Nicole Bongo | Photo Supplied
GBV dialogue 2023
The UFS Xhosa Student Association and Gender Equality and Anti-Discrimination Office joined forces to host a dialogue to enlighten students on combating gender-based violence.

The Xhosa Student Association at the University of the Free State (UFS), along with the UFS Gender Equality and Anti-Discrimination Office (GEADO) on its Bloemfontein Campus, recently hosted a dialogue titled ‘Aiding the Victim’, to educate students about what perpetuates gender-based violence, and inform them about UFS support services available to help fight GBV.

The discussion was held at the Education Auditorium on 25 August 2023, and students were challenged to pinpoint what GBV is and what it looks like. Balisa Nqambuza, Chairperson of the Xhosa Student Association and second-year BA student majoring in psychology and philosophy, said, “There is a need to have these tough conversations, as they provide insight on how to combat GBV in the future... We have had enough talks about the problem, and it is very important to start speaking about solutions that inform people of what they can do when encountering GBV.” 

The event organisers said the dialogue was an opportunity for GEADO and the Xhosa Student Association to inform students about support structures within the university that provide help for students through free counselling sessions.

“The objective was to bring awareness about GBV victims amongst us, and how to assist them better, and to also highlight comprehensive approaches, as dialogues may discuss holistic approaches that address the multidimensional impact of GBV, including psychological, emotional, physical, and economic consequences,” said Pebetsi Kgole, a guest speaker and intern from GEADO.

In May 2023, the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund reported a shocking rise in violence against women in South Africa, with 969 murders and 1 485 attempted murders recorded over this period. The UFS has put many structures in place to help in the fight against the scourge of GBV. 

Other support services available include a sexual offense response team made up of GEADO, Protection Services, Kovsie Health, access to psychologists and social workers, and free services to help victims feel safe in a secure environment. 

News Archive

Samuel Masingi dreams of a shared vision
2014-10-31

Newly-appointed Student Representative Counsel (SRC) member, Samuel Masingi, holds high aspirations for his 2014/2015 term. He has been elected to the portfolio of Ex officio: Student Media Council. Masingi aims to bring the media and students closer together.

“If the media platforms are solid,” Masingi says, “then everything else will just fall into place, causing a snowball effect. I think this is very critical, because even if you do great things, there is no point if no one knows about it.”

A believer in an open door policy, Masingi encourages students to visit him to share their ideas and opinions.

Masingi credits ambition and hard work for his achievements and the success in his academic career. He believes that confidence and willpower can convert ambition into accomplishment – transforming dreams into reality. Studying for his honours in Sport Sciences, Masingi believes in stepping up to the task at hand and making an impact. Be an agent of change in order to see the difference you desire.

Having formerly served on the Tswelopele Residence Committee for Sport, Masingi is not new to the media scene. He previously gained experience as the Sports Editor of the IRAWA Post. He currently contributes to various publications which include Student Leverage – an online magazine – and News24 Voices. This makes him highly -suitable to head the student media portfolio.

When asked about his hopes for the 2014/2015 Student Representative Council he replied, “A shared vision.”

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