On Friday, April 12, the Be Free Society from the Namibian University of Science and Technology (NUST) conducted a Sexual gender-based Based Violence (SGBV) training. The panel discussion was led by society president Immanuel Uirab, moderated by Lesley Shetukana and led by panelists Selma Iyambo, Kabalo Kakena and Hosea Ngiishiko. The topics ranged from stereotypes to being a shoulder to lean on for SGBV survivors.
It takes one person to light a candle but from one candle, you can light a whole room
Immanuel Uirab
He explained that the youth should not put their acquired knowledge, opinions, and training on the curb but instead put them into action. From the action of one young person, plenty of change can follow. The panel discussion highlighted several points.
SGBV in various forms and adequate actions
SGBV is not purely physical but mental or psychological too. Whichever form, within a relationship or not, necessary steps to healing and overpowering should be taken.
Youth-led actions and Voices against SGBV
“The power of social media holds water, never underestimate the power of a post or poster,” said Selma. All forms of communication are being used to spread awareness and aid. Such as the Be Free Campus, toll-free numbers, and podcasts. Additionally, NUST 2023 Gender, Health and Development SRC Lindiwe Mugena heightened her open-door policy to all GBV matters.
Societal Modeling of Girl Child vs Boy Child
Both girls and boys have different sets of parents and livelihoods. It’s what’s instilled that brings about the change for better or worse. “Once adults, both ought to become self-aware and dictate their own paths, despite a childhood labeled toxic,” said Kabalo.
The Women’s Dress Code
A member of the audience said, “It’s more than a dress code for a perpetrator; psychological factors play a part too. Both infant and elderly rape cases exist, not only from women of certain dress code.”
Moreover, a male member of the audience suggested that the Western influence changed the African dress code narrative. “Our roots show that modest clothes were no problem; however, the mentality that came from afar was.”
Providing Support to Survivors
Effective support invloves being Be subtle when helping; consider the little things, such as the when, where, and tone. In doing so, you are better equipped and will allow for the survivor to feel safe, unashamed, and ready to take legal steps.
Be Free Representative Lelly Amuneyla concluded the training with a call to action. She provided guidelines for become a Be Free member. “It’s your one-stop center”, if you are a victim on route to becoming a survivor, Lelly said. Follow their Instagram page to stay updated with the youth’s involvement in combating GBV, SGBV and more.
