Invest in Women and Accelerate Progress
Mahikeng Local Municipality, in collaboration with the Department of Arts, Culture, Sports, and Recreation, successfully hosted a Women’s Month celebration at Lomanyaneng Library on August 29, 2024. The event, themed “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” was graced by Executive Mayor Cllr. Tshepiso Mphehlo, Director for Community Services Dr. Kesolofetse Lefenya-Motshegare, Cllr. Mpho Phuthego, Library Staff, Angels of Tomorrow, pastors, community members, dignitaries, and local school learners. The celebration honoured the achievements of women and their vital roles in their communities.
A key message from the keynote speakers emphasized that addressing global challenges such as geopolitical conflicts, rising poverty, and climate change requires empowering women. Investing in women can drive progress toward a healthier, safer, and more equitable world for everyone.
It was emphasized that the time to act is now, and to ensure that women are not left behind, librarians and all attendees should focus on five critical areas:
- Gender equality is a fundamental human right and key to building inclusive societies that benefit everyone.
- Implementing gender-responsive financing.
- Supporting feminist change-makers.
- Transitioning to a green economy while fostering a care-oriented society.
- Eradicating poverty.
In conclusion, prioritising these areas will accelerate progress and promote equality for women in all aspects of life.
Contributors Ms Maake and Ms Nani
NWU LIS’s commitment to users with disabilities
On August 21st, 2024, the NWU Disability Rights Unit at Potchefstroom Campus hosted an impactful event to raise awareness about the needs of students with disabilities. The Library and Information Service (LIS) was invited to participate in this significant occasion, showcasing its vital role in supporting users with disabilities.
The event was a profound eye-opener, as it successfully brought together various departments, highlighting the collaborative efforts required to ensure an inclusive and supportive educational environment. As a key stakeholder in supporting teaching and learning, the LIS recognised the importance of this opportunity to engage directly with people living with disabilities. The event provided a valuable platform for the LIS to meet with these users, discuss their unique challenges, and explain the range of assistance and resources available within the library.
One of the key moments for the LIS was the opportunity to promote the new disability space currently under construction at the Ferdinand Postma Library. This space will further enhance the library’s ability to support users with disabilities, equipped with the latest facilities and technology tailored to their needs.
A particularly noteworthy aspect of the event was the interest shown by students without disabilities. They demonstrated genuine curiosity and eagerness to learn about the support and resources available for their peers living with disabilities. An example of an interest was when one student mentioned that they noticed a wheelchair lift on the stairs in another building on campus. This observation underscored the broader awareness among the student body about the resources available to aid those with disabilities.
The event served as a reminder of the importance of fostering an inclusive campus environment where all students, regardless of their abilities, feel supported and empowered. The LIS remains committed to playing a crucial role in this mission, continually striving to enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of its services.
By Lindi Mahlangu and Tebane Khoza