The University of the Free State Women’s Forum has joined forces with South African Women in Dialogue (SAWID) and Correctional Services to collaborate on projects.
The entities signed a memorandum of understanding in Bloemfontein on 12 July.
The initiative is aimed at bettering the lives of women and the youth, and to address issues of gender-based violence (GBV), as well as inequality in various environments.
Prof. Francis Petersen, vice-chancellor and rector of the University of the Free State (UFS), said while the signing of the memorandum was in itself historic, it was critical that it be converted into effective action.
“We must keep in mind that the success of our collaboration is dependent on how we translate this memorandum of understanding into actual, tangible and meaningful initiatives that benefit us all and stimulate real and lasting change. I wish all employees would join this effort,” said Petersen.
Dr Marinkie Madiope, UFS south campus principal and UFS Women’s Forum founder, said the partnership would assist in restoring the value of the youth.
“This is a game-changer that will resuscitate value and morals, as well as the place of women and youth in society,” she said.
Dr Criselda Kananda, SAWID trustee, said the platform was dedicated to hearing every woman’s voice and enhancing women’s positions by ensuring that their opinions were considered in decisions that affect their lives.
Jacky Reid-Moses, Correctional Services area commissioner for the Free State and Northern Cape, pointed out that victims must be encouraged and provided with appropriate knowledge so their lives can improve.
“This is not just in our workplaces. Communities are suffering due to a lack of understanding, which must be addressed,” said Reid-Moses.
She said that GBV had become a global socio-economic issue.
“Numerous countries are battling to put an end to it and safeguard the safety of women, the LGBTQ+ community and the youth,” she said.
