Mental health takes centre stage at DSI Men's Day
The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) marked International Men's Day on 13 December 2023, with a focus on men's mental health. The Department hosted the session for men as part of the government's efforts to tackle gender-based violence (GBV).
International Men's Day is marked annually in November to raise awareness and highlight the issues that men face. It is also celebrated to share the positive values that men bring to the world and motivate them to become positive role models.
This year's theme was "Healthy men, healthy world," focusing on the growing recognition of mental health as a public health priority and human rights issue.
Addressing the session, the DSI Director-General, Dr Phil Mjwara, said that research indicates that there is an increase in male mental health problems, with men not paying attention to their mental health and how best to manage it.
"The consequences of this can be severe and include risky behaviours, addictions, suicide and GBV," said DG Mjwara, adding that poor mental health in a workplace can reduce motivation, lower productivity and negatively affect performance.
Dr Mjwara said that internal DSI systems must enable us to detect mental-health challenges among male employees and address them as effectively as possible.
"Building a conducive climate workplace and cohesive communities will be of great benefit if we adopt a mindset that recognises the unique needs and aspirations of all genders," DG Mjwara concluded.
The session also gave men an opportunity to engage critically about their health and wellness and explore how best to address challenges in this area. Presenters included Dr Tiny Mhinga, a general practitioner, and Juan-Pierre Carstens, a clinical psychologist.
Men's experiences with the national system of innovation were discussed through a panel on how to navigate leadership dynamics for men at work and home. The panel featured Dr Mlungisi Cele, CEO of the National Advisory Council on Innovation (NACI); Mr Humbulani Mudau, CEO of the South African National Space Agency; and Mr Tilson Manyoni, NACI Chairman.
The panel agreed that men should, in their respective spaces and collectively, come together and act against patriarchy and GBV.
"Progressive thinking is a choice and, as men, we cannot hide behind history or culture. We have a responsibility to change how we interact with and view women," said Mr Manyoni.
Mr Manyoni further said that men do not have an excuse to perpetuate harmful tendencies and he urged them to be courageous and call out other men who act in ways that are not progressive towards women.
