This year marks the 30th anniversary of the global 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign, taking place from 25 November to 10 December 2021. The Campaign will focus on femicide and the gender-related violence against women under the theme, The Year of Charlotte Mannya Maxeke – 16 Days of Activism: moving from awareness to accountability.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed new challenges which call for collective solutions to continue all year-round efforts, from 16 to 365 days of activism to advance the human rights of women and the girl child. These include an increase in Gender-Based Violence (GBV), sexual abuse, as well as an increase in teenage pregnancy rates. For this reason, the DBE, together with the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) and the Agape Youth Movement (AYM), will be hosting a series of 12 Intergenerational Dialogues on a variety of related topics,” explained Ms Dululu Hlatshaneni, from the Social Cohesion and Equity in Education Directorate. “Girls have the right to a safe, educated and healthy life, not only during their critical formative years, but also as they mature into meaningful women. Boys have a role to play as their allies and as enablers of gender equality to contribute to positive masculinity,” she added.
Ms Matshepo Dibetso from the AYM facilitated the first dialogue in the series, which featured Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe, CEO of the Motsepe Foundation. “It is understandable that you are faced with anxiety brought about by the devastating COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, you are under immense pressure to perform academically, whilst facing a myriad of psychosocial onslaughts. Substance abuse is not the way to deal with fears and pressures such as bullying, cyberbullying and social media overload. Set goals, work hard and surround yourselves with positive role models and structures such as parents, teachers and caring peers. Make the spirit of Ubuntu your mantra and remember that nobody else can be you. Remain true to the power of hope and you will attain your dream,” she motivated the youthful participants to become positive influencers who understand their worth.
