TUT Research Explores Activism To Challenge GBV

TUT Research Explores Activism To Challenge GBV

TUT Research Explores Activism To Challenge GBV. The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative to address one of South Africa most critical issues: Gender-Based Violence (GBV). By aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality), TUT has established seven Research Niche Areas. These areas are designed to tackle pressing societal challenges while fostering economic growth, enhancing the university’s academic reputation, and contributing to societal well-being.

Artivism as a Tool to Combat GBV

Under the Faculty of Arts and Design, one of TUT’s Research Niche Areas, “Artivism as a Tool to Combat Gender-Based Violence,” is led by Professor Anne Mastamet-Mason. This innovative initiative leverages the transformative power of art and activism to address GBV through creative expressions such as visual arts, performance, literature, and multimedia.

Artivism serves as a unique approach to challenge societal norms, amplify marginalized voices, and promote healing and empowerment. The initiative’s ultimate goal is to empower individuals and communities impacted by GBV, fostering meaningful societal change and contributing to academic scholarship.

Key Objectives

The research focuses on the following objectives:

  • Examine Artivism’s Transformative Role: Investigate how art can be a powerful tool for addressing GBV.
  • Challenge Societal Norms: Explore how Artivist initiatives question and transform societal attitudes perpetuating GBV.
  • Raise Awareness: Assess the impact of Artivism in promoting dialogue about GBV.
  • Foster Healing and Empowerment: Study how creative expressions aid survivors in their recovery journey.
  • Address Intersectionality: Highlight the unique experiences of women of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and persons with disabilities in the context of GBV.
  • Evaluate Effectiveness: Measure the success of art-based interventions in preventing GBV and driving social change.
  • Promote Collaboration: Facilitate partnerships with artists, activists, and community organizations to create inclusive interventions.
  • Develop Trauma-Informed Approaches: Formulate methodologies that support healing through Artivism.
  • Bridge Academia and Practice: Enhance the practical application of Artivist strategies to create a meaningful impact on the ground.
  • Expand Knowledge: Contribute to the global discourse on GBV and Artivism, focusing on South Africa’s unique context.

Products and Services

The niche area’s initiatives include:

  1. Collaborative Hub: Establishing a platform for researchers and artists to co-create innovative interventions.
  2. Community Engagement: Partnering with local communities to raise awareness and drive social change.
  3. Postgraduate Research:
    • Lebogang Setlhabane: Exploring “Netspeak” in GBV-related social media communication as part of her Doctor of Language Practice program.

Strategic Partnerships

The initiative collaborates with key stakeholders, including institutions like UNISA and UWC, government bodies, industry partners, and NGOs, to amplify its impact. By fostering strategic alliances, TUT ensures that its research and interventions are both inclusive and sustainable.

Key Artivism Focus Areas

Focus Area Objective Expected Outcome
Visual Arts Raise awareness and challenge societal norms Increased public dialogue on GBV
Performance Arts Foster healing and empowerment Support for survivors through expression
Literature and Multimedia Amplify marginalized voices Broader representation in media
Community Collaborations Promote inclusivity and co-create interventions Strengthened community resilience

Aligning with SDG 5: Gender Equality

By focusing on gender equality, the “Artivism” initiative directly contributes to achieving SDG 5. It aims to create a society where individuals, regardless of gender, can thrive in an environment free from violence and discrimination. Through its innovative approach, TUT is not only addressing a critical societal issue but also setting an example for how higher education institutions can drive meaningful change.

Conclusion

TUT’s commitment to using Artivism as a tool to combat GBV highlights the transformative power of creativity and collaboration. By combining academic rigor with community engagement, the initiative not only addresses the root causes of GBV but also paves the way for a more equitable and inclusive society. As it continues to grow, this niche area serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that art and activism together can drive impactful social change.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *