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Dear VPF Friends,
Welcome to the Violence Prevention Forum newsletter. On a bi-weekly basis we will be sharing research, resources, upcoming events and opportunities. We hope you find this a useful resource.
For any resources and events you'd like to share in this newsletter or queries, contact vpf@issafrica.org.
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VPF Publication: SA’s child protection pledge needs NGO partners to succeed
South Africa’s bold new child protection pledge sets the stage for real change—but it can’t succeed alone. This article highlights why partnerships with NGOs are crucial to turning policy into impact. With their deep community roots and frontline expertise, NGOs are key to delivering services, reaching the most vulnerable, and ensuring accountability. The message is clear: to protect every child, government and civil society must work hand in hand. Read more
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Launch of LO textbook with the VPF definition of violence prevention
In 2024, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) requested input for the updated Grade 9 Life Orientation (LO) textbook. The DBE’s Chief Director for Social Inclusion, and a long-standing member of the VPF driver group, invited the Forum to contribute a page on violence prevention. After consultation, it was agreed that the VPF definition of violence prevention would be a valuable tool for introducing the topic to learners and facilitating an interactive discussion. The final result of this engagement is a dedicated activity in Lesson Set 9 of the LO textbook.
Date: 13 June 2025, 09:00-13:00 (Hybrid)
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Webinar: Examining Social Media Discourses on Social, Cultural and Gender Norms
Join the Violence Prevention Unit (Department of Health and Wellness, Western Cape Government) and Tales of Turning for an interactive online discussion on data emerging from social media research into social and gender norms; their role in shaping stereotypes on masculinity and femininity; and their influence on behaviour that drives violence and, particularly gender-based violence.
Programme :
- A demonstration of how social media listening analytics tools can be used to research social and gender norms.
- A presentation of themes and data emerging from conversations on public social media platforms.
- An interactive discussion on core themes.
Be prepared to take part in breakout room discussions and experience innovative digital tools that foster online engagement.
Date: 18 June 2025, 12:00- 13:00
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Webinar: Playful Parenting- Enablers & Barriers to Scale
Over the past five years, Playful Parenting initiatives in Bhutan, Rwanda, Serbia, and Zambia—supported by the LEGO Foundation—have worked to achieve sustainable impact at scale. In partnership with these programs, FHI 360 conducted implementation research to understand how scaling happens and to gather evidence on program effectiveness.
This webinar will present key findings, including new indicators for both horizontal (expanding reach) and vertical (institutional integration) scaling. The session will also feature a panel discussion with program representatives on the challenges and successes they experienced in scaling within their unique contexts.
Date: 17 June 2025, 14:00 , Johannesburg
Register to attend: here .
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Webinar : The Cost of Caring, Strategies to Combat Burnout and Secondary Trauma among Professionals Working with Children
In the wake of global crises—including conflicts, climate disasters, and the COVID-19 pandemic—stress and burnout among professionals working with children have reached critical levels. Those in healthcare, education, mental health, child welfare, and similar fields face high emotional demands and persistent stress.
This upcoming webinar will explore the impact of Secondary Traumatic Stress (STS) and burnout, offering practical, evidence-based strategies to help professionals safeguard their well-being. Led by Dr. Zlatina Kostova, the session will cover the causes and effects of STS, introduce tools for coping, and include interactive discussions and self-care practices for everyday use.
Date: 25 June 2025, 16:00, Johannesburg
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Call for Proposals: 2026 SVRI Research Grant
The SVRI is now accepting applications for groundbreaking research aimed at preventing and addressing violence against women, children, and other gender-based violence in low- and middle-income countries. Supported projects should produce broadly applicable insights, enhance the use of evidence in policy and practice, and foster equitable, locally led research partnerships that tackle the root causes of violence and inequality.Read more
Closing date: 31 July 2025
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Resource: A child protection issue, Exploring the causes of school-based violence in South Africa from a bio-ecological systems perspective
This article examines the root causes of school-based violence in South Africa through a bio-ecological systems lens. It highlights how individual, relational, community, and societal factors interact to create environments where violence can emerge and persist. By exploring the complex interplay between these systems—such as family dynamics, school culture, socioeconomic conditions, and broader social norms—the research offers a holistic view of the issue. The article emphasizes the need for multi-level, context-specific interventions to protect children and foster safer, more supportive school environments. Read more |
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