Youth Lead the Conversation at #ZikhalaKanjani Dialogue
- Simangaliso Motsepe
On 8 May 2025, the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), in collaboration with the National Department of Health (NDoH), and other key partners, hosted a dynamic #ZikhalaKanjani Youth Dialogue at the University’s Vanderbijlpark campus. The event empowered young people to take the lead in addressing gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), HIV, and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR).
The Dialogue formed part of the two-day #Close the Gap Campaign held at the University aimed at bringing youth-focused health services to the forefront offering HIV testing, PrEP and PEP access, condom distribution, mental wellness support, and peer-led awareness to empower the students to take charge of their health. The campaign themed “Start and Stay on HIV Treatment” aims to close the 1.1 million treatment gap and achieve the second 95 target by December of this year.
Bringing together students, youth leaders, health professionals, and civil society organisations, the youth dialogue created a platform for open conversation, peer-driven solutions, and collaborative action. Discussions focused on GBVF on campuses, HIV prevention and stigma, access to youth-friendly health services, and the creation of safer, more informed learning environments. “We need more spaces like this, where we can speak, be heard, and be part of the change,” said one student attendee.
Mr. Zweledinga Mqwati from the Sedibeng District Civil Society Forum emphasized the power of partnerships, stating that, “Reducing new infections and promoting long-term health starts with meaningful youth engagement. This campaign shows how collaboration between higher education and public health can make a real difference. As the programme spreads throughout TVET institutions and universities, it will help close gaps in health care and gives students the tools they need to take charge of their health.”
Key resolutions from the event included:
- Safe spaces on campus for confidential support, counselling, and legal advice for survivors of GBV or those facing SRHR challenges.
- Mandatory GBVF and SRHR education in orientation and ongoing student development programs.
- 24/7 crisis response services, including trauma counselling, medical care, and campus security support.
- Peer educator programs to build student-led awareness on HIV prevention, healthy relationships, and reproductive health.
- Youth-friendly health services offering confidential HIV testing, PrEP, ARVs, contraception, STI treatment, and menstrual health supplies.
The #ZikhalaKanjani Youth Dialogue reinforced the importance of youth-led advocacy in shaping safer, healthier, and more inclusive campuses. It was a powerful reminder that when young people are heard, they become key drivers of change. The success of the Youth Dialogue is testament to the power of collaboration between SANAC, higher education institutions, government departments, and civil society to champion wellness, break stigma, and empower youth to lead the charge towards a healthier, stronger tomorrow.