PhD Study Focuses on Gender-Based Violence

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Lecturer and Medical Consultant, Dr Olufunmilayo Fawole was awarded her PhD in Clinical Health Professions Education for her study that aimed to prepare Medical students to recognise and respond to gender-based violence.

Supervised by Dr Jacqueline van Wyk in the School of Clinical Medicine, the mixed methods research revealed the need to review and develop a training curriculum for Medical students that addresses gender-based violence. It also suggests that the Medical faculty requires training in this area. The other important finding of her study was that victim - patients wished to be asked about their violent experiences and therefore, physicians should selectively screen patients for abuse.

Her study is unique in that it is one of the first to address gender based violence prevention by addressing Medical training in sub-Saharan Africa. Fawole plans to develop a training curriculum for Medical schools during her post-doctoral service.

‘My experience at UKZN was a pleasant one and my supervisor was very helpful. I just wish I had started my PhD journey earlier than I did,’ she said.

Words: Lihle Sosibo

Photograph: Supplied