North-West University (NWU) students on the Vanderbijlpark Campus gathered at the Vergelegen and Jasmyn residences for an event that redefined the meaning of love. The event was hosted in collaboration with the Student Campus Council (SCC), the Campus Healthcare Centre (CHC), Student Judicial Services (SJS), Student Counselling and Development, and the School of Psychology and Social Science (SPSH). It served as a platform for crucial discussions about human rights, consent and sexual health.
Under the theme “Knowledge is Sexy”, the event emphasised the significance of being well-informed about relationships and personal boundaries, and making safe and smart choices in love. The conversations centred around human rights, consent and reproductive health, offering students a space to engage in meaningful dialogue.
Sexual health and reproductive rights
One of the primary discussions revolved around sexual health and reproductive rights. Here, students learned about responsible decision-making, access to contraception, and the necessity for open communication in relationships. Nokuthula Malinga, head nurse at the Vanderbijlpark Campus, emphasised the dangers of reckless behaviour, stating, “Promiscuity is how HIV spreads, and it is essential for students to read about it to educate themselves.” She also highlighted the many resources available on campus to help students safeguard their sexual and reproductive well-being.
Consent: a conversation that includes everyone
Another topic of discussion was consent and informed consent. It stressed the necessity of mutual agreement in all relationships, reinforcing that consent is an ongoing process and can be withdrawn at any time. Malinga highlighted an often-overlooked reality, stating: “Consent also applies to males. They, too, can experience sexual coercion and violation. Even the use of contraceptives must be a joint decision – forcing a partner to use it without agreement is a form of gender-based violence (GBV).” Echoing this sentiment, Aphiwe Ntloko, a lecturer at the School of Social Work, emphasised, “An unconscious person cannot make a proper decision.”
Attendees were encouraged to understand the legal and ethical implications of consent, ensuring that all parties involved in any relationship or encounter are fully aware and comfortable.
Beyond consent, students also explored how to handle rejection. The speakers addressed the importance of respecting others’ decisions, managing emotions healthily, and fostering a culture where rejection is accepted with grace rather than hostility.
Empowerment through education
The event was more than just a discussion – it was a movement that empowered students to take charge of their relationships and personal decisions. Through interactive sessions, real-life scenarios and knowledgeable insights, attendees walked away not just with knowledge but with confidence to cultivate respectful and healthier relationships.
The NWU continues to shape campus culture by fostering conversations about love, consent and informed choices. And for students who missed the event, campus resources remain available, ensuring that every student has access to the information they need. At the end of the day, the best gift in any relationship is knowledge, because knowledge is indeed sexy.
Ms Nokuthula Malinga, the head nurse on the Vanderbijlpark Campus.
Oratilwe Modise, Arts and Culture Student Campus Council (SCC) officer on the Vanderbijlpark Campus, addressing the students and emphasising the urgency of tackling GBV.
Aphiwe Ntloko, lecturer at the School of Social Work.
