STRATEGIES TO PREVENT GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE AT UNIVERSITIES IN SOUTH AFRICA: A NARRATIVE REVIEW.

Tiisetso Aubrey  Chuene; Mahlodi Phildah  Maphakela; Sethepele Anastasia  Phogoles

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i6.1862

Authors

Tiisetso Aubrey Chuene Pharmacist, Department of Student Health and Wellness Centre, Division of Student Affairs, University of Limpopo, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa.
Mahlodi Phildah Maphakela Clinical Nurse Practitioner, Department of Student Health and Wellness Centre, Division of Student Affairs, University of Limpopo. Private Bag X1106, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa.
Sethepele Anastasia Phogoles Student Assistant, Department of Student Health and Wellness Centre, Division of Student Affairs, University of Limpopo. Private Bag X1106, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i6.1862

Keywords:

Gender-Based Violence, Strategies, Universities, Students, South Africa

Abstract

Gender-based violence (GBV) continues to be a significant public health issue affecting millions worldwide. It is pervasive and deeply embedded within societies. Despite numerous efforts by governments and various organizations to combat it, GBV has become almost a routine occurrence at South African universities. This paper explored strategies that may be adopted to reduce GBV at South African universities. This is a conceptual paper, and it relies solely on secondary data for analysis and interpretation. The authors employed a purposive sampling strategy to gather data from a variety of databases that were particularly relevant to the subject matter. Secondary data from EbscoHost, Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, Jstor, Sabinet, and Proquest were sampled and reviewed using keywords and phrases related to GBV. This review highlights how universities can foster a safer, more inclusive environment where GBV is not tolerated and victims are supported and empowered through continuous training, awareness campaigns, peer support systems, clear policies, and effective response and reporting mechanisms. Preventing GBV at universities requires a collective effort from academic staff, support staff, students, and partners. Therefore, ongoing collaboration, sustained efforts, and a commitment to change are essential for making a significant difference in the prevention of GBV. To support GBV prevention efforts in universities, research should be conducted to investigate how well-coordinated strategies involving the university community contribute to creating safer campus environments. Further research should be conducted to assess the influence of digital awareness campaigns and peer-led programs on shifting student perceptions and behaviors related to GBV. University GBV policies should formally recognize and support peer-led education programs and survivor advocacy groups. These policies must also incorporate intersectional, inclusive approaches that address the unique requirements of marginalized populations, such as students with disabilities, international students, and the LGBTQ+ community.

Author Biographies

Tiisetso Aubrey Chuene, Pharmacist, Department of Student Health and Wellness Centre, Division of Student Affairs, University of Limpopo, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa.

Mr. Tiisetso Aubrey Chuene is a Primary Care Drug Therapy Pharmacist at the Department of Student Health and Wellness Centre at the University of Limpopo. Mr Chuene holds a Master of Public Health degree and is currently a PhD candidate in Public Health. His research interests are in Public Health, Pharmacy Practice, and Mental Health. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1976-146X

Mahlodi Phildah Maphakela, Clinical Nurse Practitioner, Department of Student Health and Wellness Centre, Division of Student Affairs, University of Limpopo. Private Bag X1106, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa.

Ms. Mahlodi Phildah Maphakela is a Clinical Nurse Practitioner at the Department of Student Health and Wellness Centre at the University of Limpopo. Ms Maphakela holds a Master of Public Health degree and is currently a PhD candidate in Public Health. Her research niche focuses on HIV/AIDS prevention, Gender violence, and Mental Health. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3363-6174X

Sethepele Anastasia Phogoles, Student Assistant, Department of Student Health and Wellness Centre, Division of Student Affairs, University of Limpopo. Private Bag X1106, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa.

Ms. Sethepele Anastatia Phogole is a postgraduate student at the University of Limpopo and a Student Assistant at the Department of Student Health and Wellness Centre at the University of Limpopo. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2278-2459

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