Dr Gcina Mtengwane, Community Development lecturer in the Centre for Gender and Africa Studies on the Qwaqwa Campus, emphasised that material need can create vulnerability, while dependence can further trap survivors of GBV, rape, and other forms of abuse. He explained that, in many cases, young women constitute a significant proportion of victims, highlighting a broader societal concern. “We all come from communities, and communities shape who we are and the realities that we find in higher education,” he said.

Dr Mtengwane stressed the need for advocacy that goes beyond encouraging survivors to report incidents, calling instead for solutions that address and eliminate the underlying conditions that create gross vulnerability and dependence among young women in higher education.

Cindi Mzizi, English Academic Facilitator in the Department of English, highlighted the role of financial vulnerability in the ‘blesser–blessee’ phenomenon among students. “Are we saying women who are financially stable don’t become blessees ? It becomes a choice and a need,” Mzizi said. She noted that students waiting for funding may experience financial pressure when they see their peers progressing. “We all come from different backgrounds. We don’t see what happens behind the cameras; we only see the lifestyle,” she said.

Mokgadi Sathekge, Arts and Culture representative on the Campus Student Representative Council (CSRC), highlighted the importance of such dialogues in understanding the causes behind financial need and ‘blesser–blessee’ relationships. “One of the panellists had highlighted how delays in the disbursement of bursary funds, such as NSFAS [the National Student Financial Aid Scheme], may contribute to students’ financial vulnerability,” Sathekge said.

Tshepo Moloi, a Bachelor of Social Science final-year student, emphasised the importance of creating safe spaces on campus. “It taught me how to be more aware, how to respect others, and how to be a better supporter if someone opens up,” Moloi said, noting that GBV affects students in residences and social spaces, making participation in GBV dialogues even more important. “For me, it was important to attend because GBV affects all of us as students. I wanted to learn more and not just assume I know.”

UFS Social Work Services, through its collaboration with Qholaqhwe Advice Centre and the Department of Health, has created a welcoming space where students can access essential support and resources when experiencing abuse or GBV, reinforcing the UFS’ commitment to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all.