Myths and stereotypical attitudes around sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) shape the way in which society perceives and responds to violence against women. Such myths lead people to blame women for rape, to make people doubt what survivors say, and to survivors feeling guilty and blaming themselves for rape.

SGBV manifests itself in physical, emotional or sexual abuse and violence. It also includes financial/economic abuse. During the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, many people are forced to stay in their houses with violent partners or family members who abuse them, with no way of avoiding those who inflict harm.

The University of Pretoria is committed to addressing all forms of SGBV. This is also important in the light of the UN Sustainable Development Goal 5 – Gender Equality. This commitment includes protection against human rights violations perpetrated against any child.

Please join University of Pretoria Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Tawana Kupe as he hosts a webinar to discuss this critical topic given the increase in gender-based violence issues in the country. The fight against SGBV is everyone’s responsibility. The conversation will be moderated by Nthabeleng Matela, Metro FM presenter and UP alumnus. She will be in conversation with Ms Sarah Matseke, Acting Transformation Manager: Department of Human Resources; Mr David Kabwa: President: Student Representative Council; Dr Linda Blokland, Acting HoD: Student Counselling: Department of Student Affairs; Dr Priscillla Gutura, Senior Lecturer: Department of Social Work and Criminology; and Mr Pierre Brouard, Deputy Director: Centre for Sexualities, AIDS and Gender.

Please join us online from 12pm on Friday 7 August. Please click here to register.

Should you have questions for the panel, please send them before 1pm on Wednesday 5 August to [email protected]