The DUT Gender Forum Annual General Meeting (AGM) recently took place at the Coastlands Musgrave Convention Centre. The event saw a strong turnout which was bolstered by the presence of sponsors and special guests, adding to the excitement of the function.
Dr Navitha Ramroop served as the programme director, while the Chairperson Dr Rosaline Govender highlighted the significant milestones achieved by the Gender Forum over the past year. In alignment with the Forum’s vision to strive towards gender equity through transformative thinking and action, Dr Govender reiterated the objectives: fostering a gender-sensitive environment, empowering the DUT community through capacity building, promoting an institution free of harassment and inequalities, participating in the development of gender-related policies, developing ethical leadership, and networking with internal and external bodies. She also recapped key events from the past year, including a Masterclass in Gender Identity and Leadership, a Men’s Health Webinar, and a Critical Dialogue on navigating gender challenges, among others. Additionally, the Forum’s representation on various DUT committees and its partnership with The International Institute of Knowledge and Management (TIIKM-Sri Lanka) were underscored.
The annual gender meeting concluded with reflective and thought-provoking discussions on gender-related issues. Dr Govender stated, “It is not merely a platform for dialogue and another forum to be a member of; we are catalysts for societal transformation. By fostering inclusivity and challenging entrenched stereotypes and mindsets, we pave the way for a more equitable and transformed world, where all genders can thrive without constraint.”
On the same day, the Gender Forum also hosted the Gender-Thon, facilitated by PR and Marketing Officer, Ronelle Lyson. The event featured a series of fun team-building activities with exciting prizes, making it an unforgettable experience. The highlights included interactive games promoting teamwork and creativity, and a high-energy workout session led by professional trainers from the DUT Sports Centre and Virgin Active, tailored to suit all fitness levels. Entertainment was provided by Nomvula Maneli, the student representative on the Gender Forum, whose soul-stirring voice captivated the audience.
The Gender-Thon underscored the importance of promoting physical and mental well-being, fostering a supportive environment. The Gender Forum was excited to also be able to host the team from Old Mutual who attended with Abby their virtual nurse solution who detected vital signs and generated a report about one’s overall health. The Old Mutual Team generously donated a weekend away to Zimbali which was won by Mr David Thomas. Attendees expressed enthusiastic responses, highlighting the need for more such events at DUT and praising the camaraderie and teamwork exhibited.
The team-building exercises developed leadership and problem-solving skills, empowering members to take on active roles and reinforcing the Forum’s goals and values, thereby creating a more unified and inclusive community.
Pictured: Attendees enjoying an exercise session at the event.
Ronelle Lyson
