The initiative also aims to equip students with the knowledge of how to respond when encountering violence.
Lizelle Miller, Social Worker at the Poly, said the institution has an obligation to share information and educate people on important national issues. “Over the past decade it has become clear that violence against women and children poses particular challenges for our local community,” she said.
The film screening of “Once Were Warriors” was attended by more than 100 students and preceded by a group discussion during which students looked at the prevalence and impact of gender-based violence (GBV) in Namibia.
The programme also included a presentation and discussion by Ben Schernick, a Conflict Resolution consultant, on specific issues relating to GBV in local communities. Among the issues discussed were individual motives, culture, religion, family upbringing and government support for the fight against GBV.
The initiative was a resounding success, with more students attending the programme than last year.
