UKZN Men Of Virtue Lead Campaign Against GBV During 16 Days of Activism

UKZN Men Of Virtue Lead Campaign Against GBV During 16 Days of Activism. A group of men at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has taken a proactive stance against gender-based violence (GBV), gender inequality, femicide, and homophobia.

During the 16 Days of Activism Against the Abuse of Women and Children, the Men of Virtue (MOV) engaged in various impactful activities aimed at raising awareness and promoting action against GBV.

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Empowering Youth Offenders at Westville Prison

As part of their efforts, MOV addressed youth offenders at Westville Prison, aged between 18 and 25, in an event hosted by Westville Correctional Services. The objective was to inspire these individuals on their journey towards rehabilitation while advocating for an end to violence against women and children.

Mr. Sanele Zuma, Chairperson of MOV, emphasized the organization’s mission to encourage men to actively participate in the fight against GBV. He underscored the importance of men acknowledging their potential role as both perpetrators and victims of violence, while also encouraging them to seek support for their own traumas.

Collaboration with UKZN Westville Campuses

MOV collaborated with the Rewards Services Department at UKZN’s Westville campuses, where male staff members expressed their commitment to combating GBV by taking a pledge during the 16 Days of Activism.

This initiative, launched in September 2022, marked a significant step forward in engaging men in the fight against GBV. Mr. Raymond Parkies from Rewards Services highlighted the critical role men play in challenging GBV and expressed the department’s dedication to raising awareness and taking concrete action against it.

March with LifeLine in Cape Town

In addition to local efforts, MOV joined LifeLine in a march held in Cape Town, where they presented a memorandum to the government, urging legislative amendments to address violence against women and children. This collaborative advocacy demonstrated MOV’s commitment to effecting systemic change and addressing the root causes of GBV on a national level.

Conclusion

The proactive involvement of the Men of Virtue at the University of KwaZulu-Natal during the 16 Days of Activism Against the Abuse of Women and Children underscores the importance of engaging men as allies in the fight against GBV. Through empowerment, education, and advocacy, MOV is contributing to a culture of accountability and respect, fostering a safer and more equitable society for all.