By Itumeleng Nzimande
Following a confirmed suicide case and several reported attempts on campus, the University of Limpopo SRC Gender, Health and Wellness portfolio hosted a mental health awareness session at New Cinema Hall . The initiative highlighted the urgent need to prioritise student mental health and strengthen support structures.
SRC Chairperson for Gender, Health and Wellness, Lindi Mathebula, emphasised the urgency of the campaign. She noted that immediate intervention was necessary despite Mental Health Awareness Month being observed in October. “This initiative was aimed at preventing further loss of life on campus while ensuring that students are supported emotionally and academically,” said Mathebula.
Dr Ngwako Rapakwana, Director of the university’s Gender Desk, addressed the link between mental health and gender-based violence. She explained that survivors often experience anxiety, depressive symptoms, low self-esteem, hypoactive sexual desire, isolation, and, in many cases, self-harm and post-traumatic stress disorders. She urged students to utilise available campus structures. “The Gender Desk is always available to assist. It is important to seek help when going through experiences that affect one’s mental health,” she said.
Dr Ngwako Rapakwana, Director of the University’s Gender Desk. Photo by: Molebogeng Lebyane
During the session, speakers also highlighted the role of mental well-being in how individuals respond to illness, particularly life-changing diagnoses such as HIV/AIDS and cancer. Mapula Maunatlala, a professional nurse at the university’s Health and Wellness Centre, said coming to terms with such conditions can be emotionally overwhelming, often leading to denial, fear, and uncertainty. “It is important to seek professional help when faced with such challenges because without support, acceptance and recovery become difficult,” she said.
Mapula Maunatlala, Professional Nurse at the Health and Wellness Centre. Photo by: Molebogeng Lebyane
Student counsellor Maria Rammutla encouraged students to seek help and create safe spaces for one another. She stressed the importance of speaking openly without fear of stigma. “Be your friend’s keeper. Be warm enough for your friends to know that even when life becomes heavier, they can trust you,” she said, while discouraging the perception of suicide as a solution. She further encouraged students to utilise services at D Block and the Health and Wellness Centre, noting that they are confidential and accessible.
Maria Rammutla,Student Counsellor. Photo by: Molebogeng Lebyane
Students who attended the session shared positive feedback. Dakalo Matodzi, a third-year BSc (Life Sciences) student, said the session helped identify where to seek help. PGCE student Convince Mhlongo acknowledged the importance of such initiatives and expressed hope for improved services at D Block. Neo Leshilo, a third-year LLB student, added: “Mental health is a sensitive issue, and if not handled properly, severe consequences may arise. I appreciate this awareness.”
