By Mikateko Mohlala
The University of Limpopo’s Gender Desk visited the Reakgona Disability Centre (RDC) to raise awareness about gender-based violence (GBV) and educate students on university policies and the code of ethics that protect both staff and students.
In a bid to make gender-based violence (GBV) awareness inclusive, the University of Limpopo’s Gender Desk collaborated with the Reakgona Disability Centre (RDC) to host an initiative aimed to educate students on safety, GBV prevention, and the university’s policies and code of ethics.”
The event featured presentations by Mahlodi Maphakela, a Clinical Nurse Practitioner at the Health and Wellness Centre, and Dr Ngwako Rapakwana, Director of the Gender Desk. Maphakela highlighted the risks, causes, and consequences of GBV, stressing that it affects not only women, but anyone abused because of their gender. “Those whistles and comments you make when someone passes by are also part of GBV,” she explained.
Clinical Nurse Practitioner reminding students that abuse can affect anyone, regardless pf gender. Photo by: Dimpho Boshomane
She further outlined different forms of GBV, including sexual, verbal, emotional, and psychological abuse, as well as the rising concern of femicide, often linked to jealous ex partners.
Students were reminded of contributing factors such as alcohol and substance abuse and growing up in violent households. They were encouraged to prevent GBV by fostering respect and supporting one another.
Students attentively engaging during the course of the event. Photo by: Dimpho Boshomane
Dr Rapakwana urged students to report GBV incidents within 72 hours to ensure access to medical assistance and preserve evidence. “Do not change your clothes or bathe so that evidence can be collected if vaginal swabs fail,” she advised. She also emphasized that the Gender Desk provides counselling for both survivors and perpetrators, noting that some abusers may be dealing with past trauma.
Students engaged actively in the discussion. Prince Modika, a second-year law student, said the event taught him the importance of respect: “People usually get into trouble because of a lack of knowledge, but today I learned that respect should not be based on gender it should be given to everyone.”
Pheladi Mahlatji, a first-year law student, added: “I realised that bullying and abuse can occur in both major and minor forms, sometimes without awareness. Respect, boundaries, and mutual consent are key to preventing harm.”
According to Angie Bosetsi, a registered counsellor at the Gender Desk, the session was organised to accommodate RDC students, who are often unable to attend other awareness events.
Angie Bosetsi calls for staff and students to embrace the Code of Ethics for a safer campus. Photo by: Dimpho Boshomane
“This outreach was designed specifically to accommodate RDC students and ensure inclusivity,” said Bosetsi, “We encourage both staff and students to familiarise themselves with the university’s code of ethics, which sets clear boundaries to protect the entire campus community. She urged both staff and students to familiarise themselves with the university’s code of ethics to avoid disciplinary action.
The awareness drive reinforced the call for a safer and more respectful campus community where all students, including those at the RDC, are supported.
