Be Mindful - Safety First, Says UKZN’s Risk Management Services

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UKZN’s Pietermaritzburg campus hosted a Safety and Awareness Day at the Students Union Building which, despite cold and rainy weather, attracted a large number of students.

The day’s main buzz phrase was: “Be Mindful!”

Students had been invited to the event by UKZN alumnus and administrative officer Ms Saziwe Madikane on behalf of Risk Management Services (RMS).

Pietermaritzburg Campus Director Professor Albert Modi welcomed the initiative and emphasised the value of student safety on campus. ‘I’m hoping you will learn a lot today,’ he said to the gathering.

The aim was to raise awareness among students about how to protect themselves and help avoid landing in dangerous situations caused by the misuse of alcohol and drugs. Said Madikane: ‘We wanted to enlighten all students, but mainly first-years, about the services available on campus and inform them about safety-related priorities.’

Various stakeholders and partners spoke to students, including the K9 Unit, who did an inspection presentation featuring their wet-nosed canine colleague, Nola.

The Msunduzi Fire Department demonstrated how to put out a fire, what to do if you catch alight, how to treat burns and how to rescue people from a fire. ‘If you get burned, do not put anything but water on the burn - just normal tap water,’ said Mr Vusi Tshabalala of the Msunduzi Fire Department.

Students were alerted to some of the realities and possible dangers of campus life - such as the potential consequences of leaving a drink unattended at a party. There were gasps all around the room when it was explained what the effect of a unit of alcohol is for a woman compared to the impact on a man.

‘You are loved, you are courageous, you are worthy, you are unique, you are responsible for your own safety, and you have a right to say NO,’ - that was the message shared by Sister Maharaj from the Northdale Trauma Centre.

‘You need to know your limits. Only you know how much enough is,’ said Mr Nhlakanipho Msimang of the KZN Liquor Authority.

The event was very interactive with refreshments provided and lots of prizes on offer.

Sponsors who participated in the day included: the Students Representative Council; Student Governance Leadership Development; Student Counselling; the Disability Unit; the HIV Centre; the Northdale Crisis Centre; the KwaZulu-Natal Liquor Authority; the Department of Student Resident Affairs; Safety Health and Environment; the Msunduzi Fire Department; the Department of Correctional Services; the South African Police Services (SAPS), SAPS Investigation Unit and the K9 Unit.

‘Congratulations to Mr Trevor Abrahams, Ms Saziwe Madikane and all participants,’ said Professor Modi. ‘This event was a huge success!’

Words: Cindy Chamane

Photographs: Supplied