Emeris Workshop Empowers Young Boys To Challenge GBV And Build Respect

Seventy nine Grade 4 to 7 male learners at Northview Primary School in Phoenix recently participated in a “Safety Starts With Me” workshop led by The Vega School at Emeris uMhlanga. The aim of the initiative was to encourage positive behaviour and to address gender based violence at an early age.

Nivedita Dayanand (Counsellor at The Vega School at Emeris uMhlanga) said the workshop was developed in response to a need identified by the school. “The principal highlighted that many of their programmes focused on girls, with limited initiatives for boys. I specifically created this workshop to address that gap. The learners were so excited. I was very impressed with their eagerness to engage and their understanding of gender based violence,” she said.

Northview Primary School is the campus’ KHUMO (Kid Heroes Under the Mentorship of Others) partner, Emeris’ national corporate social investment initiative focused on supporting and uplifting local communities through skills sharing and development projects. By enlisting the help of students, staff and the expertise of lecturers, the campus is collaborating with the school on projects aimed at addressing specific needs identified by the school.

Each learner received a goodie bag which included an educational pamphlet on respect, anti bullying and what to do if someone is being hurt or feels unsafe.

School principal Anand Reddhi welcomed the initiative, saying early intervention was critical. “I come from a high school teaching background and in high school it’s too late to correct behaviour. Male learners must be taught the basic principles of respect in their formative years”.

As part of the workshop, Dr Kajal Singh Nandlal (Vice Chairperson of the uMhlanga Women’s Association) was invited to engage with the learners about the organisation’s “Boys to Men” programme.

“Through relatable discussions and practical examples, the boys were guided on how their everyday choices shape their character, relationships and future. Their response was overwhelmingly positive. The energy in the school hall reflected a strong willingness to learn, ask questions and challenge their own thinking,” said Nandlal.