Noluthando Mchunu
The Dean of Teaching and Learning in the College of Health Sciences at UKZN, Professor Snegugu Duma, says society has a significant role to play in preventing the scourge of gender-based violence.
Speaking at UKZN’s recent Science of Teaching and Learning Conference, Duma called for trauma-informed teaching to be embedded in the DNA of universities.
She emphasised that lecturers must consider not only what they teach, but also how they teach, and whether students experience physical and virtual learning environments as psychologically safe spaces.
Duma also appealed to communities to show kindness and compassion towards victims of trauma, regardless of their gender.
“It is very important also amongst ourselves to make sure that we are aware, the awareness is very critical. Because if you are aware you will be able to look and see that I see so she is withdrawn today, she is isolating herself and you will be able to offer that kindness,” she said.
Thousands of students in higher learning institutions across the country are entering the most stressful season of the academic year.
Thus, universities and private colleges will be making available clinics and other forms of mental health assistance facilities to help curb psychological pressures such as GBV traumas which may affect students as they prepare for their final exams.
Click below to hear Duma’s sentiments…
