SADTU calls on men to speak out and lead by example
The “Monna Wa SADTU Bua” event seeks to create a safe space for men to speak out about issues affecting them.
Men in the teaching fraternity were recently challenged to speak out about various issues during the “Monna Wa SADTU Bua” event.
The South African Teachers’ Union (SADTU) Sebokeng Branch launched this initiative to create a space where teachers can openly discuss issues affecting their personal and professional lives. These conversations focus on mental health, financial wellness, relationships, and gender-based violence (GBV), encouraging support, awareness, and practical solutions.
The event created a safe space for male teachers to engage, offer support to one another, and to strengthen the profession from within. Speaking to Ster North, Tumi Mokhobo, Gender Portfolio Convenor, says the event was created after one of the male members of the branch committed suicide.
“It became clear that men are also burdened. The problem is that our society mostly focuses on women, while men are also suffering in silence. So, this event creates a platform for men to speak out openly about anything and everything on their mind.
“These issues affect everyone in the community. We felt that men need a safe space to heal, to learn and unlearn certain things. When our teachers are not well, the children will be affected, as such things create a ripple effect. Teachers must be well, holistically, so that they can continue in their service of teaching children and helping them create better futures for themselves.”
Men have an important role to play in shaping the next generation. By leading through their actions, they can serve as positive role models for both boys and girls, teaching values such as respect, responsibility, equality, and compassion.
She highlighted the need for positive male role models in our society.
“Our communities have a role to play in that they can let men know that it’s okay to cry, to seek help, to be weak, and to break down. If we can do this, our men will be healed, and this will also mean healing for our entire community.”
Mokhobo says the second leg of the annual event will take place in 2027 in the form of a camp.
“We are hoping that more men will join in so that the impact can be bigger. There are still many issues to be tackled, and this can not be achieved in a single event.”
