By Menziwa Msibi

Student Counselling and Development (SCD) on the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus recently hosted a gentlemen’s gala themed “Transforming MENtalities”.

The purpose of the event was to invite men to talk about challenges they experience, and to reach out to one another and share their feelings.

The SCD looks after the mental health and general well-being of all registered students of the NWU.

Lerato Wana, senior manager at the SCD, says they have recognised the need of male students to also talk about the challenges they are facing, especially during a time when men are seen as the scapegoats for issues affecting women.

“Not all men are offenders, and with an increased focus on the well-being of women, the fears and problems of men are often pushed to the side,” she adds.

“As SCD, we noted the gender disparity, and saw the need for balanced initiatives aimed at addressing problems and behaviours of both male and female students.

“We therefore decided to host this gala to encourage open communication and to promote the idea that positive change can only occur through acknowledgment and action.”

The event featured various speakers who shared the challenges they have come across – including drugs, alcohol and losing loved ones. A question-and-answer session with the speakers also afforded students the opportunity to voice their concerns about challenges men face. Academics also actively participated in the discussions, reinforcing the message that male students are not alone in their struggle and that there are people who genuinely care about them.

Lerato Wala with some of the guest speakers at the gentlemen’s gala.

Male students on the Mahikeng Campus actively participated in the SCD’s gentleman’s gala, “Transforming MENtalities”.