Men from various walks of life and professions gathered during the UL Men’s Seminar to share ideas on combating gender-based violence (GBV). Photos: Lebogang Mathaba
By Nzumbululo Munzhelele – ULpublications@ul.ac.za
Gender-based violence (GBV) is often perceived as a women’s issue, with men typically seen only as perpetrators. However, this time around, men at the University of Limpopo (UL) united to challenge this narrative and take a stand against the stigma
This took place during the University’s Gender Desk Men’s Seminar, recently hosted as an open, informative, and healing space for men to reflect on their roles in combating GBV both in the workplace and society.
Under the theme ‘Championing Excellence: Celebrating Men’s Contributions and Leadership’, the seminar aimed to highlight the vital yet often overlooked role men can play in fostering safer and more inclusive communities. The event encouraged men to lead with compassion, confront harmful behaviours, and become allies in the ongoing fight against gender inequality.
Dr. Rev Ngwako Rapakwana, Director of UL’s Gender Desk,
Dr. Rev Ngwako Rapakwana, Director of UL’s Gender Desk, emphasised that the seminar is part of a broader university initiative to address GBV through education, awareness, and support.
“The University is committed to fostering a work and study environment free from harassment and discrimination. This seminar is one of many initiatives we’ve launched to ensure such behaviour is not tolerated,” she stated.
Dr Rapakwana also pointed out that men can be victims of GBV. “Men often suffer in silence due to societal norms that discourage vulnerability. These discussions are crucial for providing men with a platform to share their experiences, whether as victims, bystanders, or individuals striving to unlearn harmful behaviours. We aim to create a space for men to break that silence.”
Brigadier Isaac Mhlongo, Provincial head, Pro-active policing
The stories shared during the seminar were emotional, raw, and honest. Brigadier Isaac Mhlongo, Limpopo SAPS Provincial Head for Proactive Crime Prevention, highlighted the importance of justice and accountability.
“When cases are dropped, offenders walk free. This sends a dangerous message that GBV isn’t serious. It perpetuates a cycle where victims remain in danger and perpetrators face no repercussions .”
Dr Thembeka Makamu, Senior Lecturer of Department of linguistic, Translation and Interpretation
Dr Thembeka Makamu, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Linguistics, Translation and Interpreting at UL, addressed the economic inequalities that often underlie abuse.
“In many societies, men hold economic power, leaving women financially dependent. This dependence can trap women in abusive relationships, with no means of escape.”
Dr Christopher Akinola, Senior Lecturer of Performing Arts
Dr Christopher Akinola from the Department of Performing Arts at UL echoed this sentiment, noting that GBV often arises from a toxic abuse of power. “Leaders must act with integrity. When power is misused, it normalises control and discrimination, particularly against vulnerable groups.”
The seminar transcended dialogue, transforming into a call to action. Student attendee Blessing Shongwe reflected, “These discussions empower us to confront GBV when we see it, hear it, or experience it. They remind us that silence is complicity.”
With raw honesty and emotional depth, the UL Men’s Seminar laid bare the complex realities of GBV—and reaffirmed that meaningful change is only achievable when everyone, including men, stands up, speaks out, and takes action.
