The Nelson Mandela University Alpha Student Residence recently hosted a mentoring session aimed at creating awareness around the pressing issues of high crime rates and water scarcity in the Central area. The session, which took place on the 11th, was organized by the Residence Student Assistant (RSA), Bantu Ndiki, and featured mentor Shadi Tshabangu and Lebohang Themebe, the house committee.
Rather than holding a conventional indoor session, Ndiki chose to hold an outdoor event to ensure that the message reached all stakeholders affected by these issues. The aim of the awareness campaign was to encourage students to take these matters seriously and take action rather than simply blaming the state and local municipalities. This marks the beginning of a collaborative effort between students, the university, SAPS, local businesses, community members, leaders, and the municipality to combat the rapidly rising crime rate in the Central area, which has been targeting students both day and night.
During the session, students shared their personal experiences of being robbed at gunpoint and threatened with knives. Despite some students expressing fear about joining the movement due to the venue's location in a known hot spot, Donkin Park, the decision was made to hold the event there to demonstrate that the community is aware and determined to take action against crime. The dialogue also included brainstorming ways in which the students of Warwick could help control water scarcity in the bay. One solution was to develop a laundry schedule to conserve water, take shorter showers, and turn off water on specific days.
The session also included fun outdoor games designed to teach students how to save water and what to do if they are a victim of a crime and where to seek help. The dialogue was intense and the energy was high, with students showing a deep commitment to making a difference in their community.
By bringing together students, community leaders, and local businesses, this mentoring session demonstrated the power of collaboration in tackling complex social issues. The students of Nelson Mandela University Alpha Student Residence have shown that they are not just passive observers, but active and engaged citizens who are committed to creating positive change in their community. It is hoped that this session will inspire similar initiatives across the country, empowering more individuals and organizations to work together towards a safer and more sustainable future.