Distress app launched to combat violence
In support of driving positive change in the ongoing fight against violence in communities, the Distress application (D-App) was launched by justice minister Yvonne Dausab on Wednesday at the Namibia University of Science and Technology’s (NUST) HTTPS building.It was launched in honour of the late Delia Weimers-Maasdorp, a reported gender-based violence victim and university’s industry contracts analyst in the Directorate of Research, Innovation and Partnerships (DRIP).
The D-App is an initiative of Prof. Gloria Iyawa who holds the NUST United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Chair for Gender and Digital Technologies.
Speaking at the launch, Dr Colin Stanley the acting deputy vice-chancellor for DRIP said it is exemplary of the university’s dedication to providing everlasting solutions to social matters that affect society.
He emphasised that universities must go the extra mile to provide everlasting solutions to matters affecting society. “We are using the tools at our disposal to further raise awareness, subsequently helping curb violence that continuously rips through society – tearing families apart and leaving communities broken,” Stanley said.
Immediate access
According to the DRIP’s acting deputy vice-chancellor, the D-App offers immediate access to essential resources. This includes features like emergency help, counselling services and community support – all designed with privacy and ease of use in mind, he said.
The launch of the D-App underscores the university’s dedication to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all members of its community. And to encourage victims of violence, regardless of their background or circumstance, to know that they have access to the support they need, said Stanley.
Speaking at the launch, Dausab urged society to do its part in combating violence, citing the late president’s remarks at the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women last November:
“As a nation, we must strive to create an environment in which survivors feel safe to come forward. Where perpetrators are held accountable for their actions. And where support services are readily available to build a Namibia where the scourge of violence against women becomes a distant memory.”