CUT Bloemfontein Campus SRC President, Liyabona Nkatshase addressing his peers at a Men’s Conference.

Across our campuses and communities, a quiet yet urgent conversation is unfolding about what it truly means to be a man in today’s society. For too long, narrow definitions of masculinity, rooted in dominance, emotional silence, and rigid expectations, have shaped the identities of young men, often at the expense of their well-being and personal growth. A new wave of leadership, however, is beginning to challenge these norms, calling for a reimagined vision of manhood grounded in purpose, accountability, and authenticity.

Demonstrating proactive and transformative leadership, CUT Bloemfontein Campus SRC President, Liyabona Nkatshase, hosted a Men’s Conference aimed at creating a platform for critical dialogue and reflection. The initiative sought to empower young men to break free from harmful stereotypes that perpetuate violence, emotional suppression, and other destructive behaviours. He encouraged attendees to “write their own chapter” by challenging patriarchal norms, embracing vulnerability as a form of strength, and cultivating meaningful brotherhoods grounded in accountability, personal growth, and mutual support.

Dr Bernard Sebake, Dean of Students, addresses attendees at the Men’s Conference, sharing insight and guidance with purpose and impact.

Central to his message was the importance of leadership, not only at an individual level, but also within institutions. Mr Nkatshase emphasised that institutions of higher learning are not passive spaces; they are powerful environments that shape students’ worldviews and future trajectories. As such, they carry a responsibility to actively guide young men in unlearning harmful beliefs and developing into purposeful, ethical leaders.

“We all come from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences that shape who we become,” he said. “Along this journey, our relationships with family, friends, and community members profoundly influence the choices we make and the beliefs we hold about ourselves and the world. For some, these influences are affirming, nurturing individuals who grow into responsible and compassionate contributors to society. For others, however, they are rooted in misconceptions, stigma, and unhealthy belief systems that can cause lasting harm. This reality has been particularly evident among many young men in our country.”

“From an early age,” he added, “boys are often socialised to equate manhood with dominance and physical strength. These narrow definitions are reinforced by superficial markers such as a deep voice or darker skin, creating unrealistic and exclusionary standards of masculinity.” Speaking candidly, he reflected on his own struggles navigating these expectations.

“Every structure within the university influences student development,” he noted, posing a critical question: what systems are in place to ensure that male students are nurtured into men of purpose, transformation, and positive impact? This call-to-action challenges universities to move beyond rhetoric and to intentionally cultivate inclusive, supportive environments.

“Ultimately, leadership in this context demands courage, accountability, and vision. It requires creating spaces where young men are not confined by outdated definitions of masculinity, but are instead empowered to lead with integrity, empathy, and self-awareness. As a university community, we must take collective ownership of this mission in ensuring that every young man is supported, every voice is valued, and no boy child is left behind,” he concluded.

In picture from left: Prof. Samson Mashele, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research Innovation and Engagement, Honourable Ketso Makume, MEC: Finance, Economic Development and Tourism and Cllr Vusi Soqaga, MMC: Mangaung.