By Dr Linda Meyer

When 26-year-old Cape Peninsula University of Technology student Sinoxolo Myalo was tragically stabbed outside her off-campus student residence in November 2023, the South African Union of Students called for more proactive measures to ensure student safety.

The Prevalence of GBVF in South Africa

South Africa’s gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) statistics remain alarming:

• Over 50% of South African women have experienced GBVF, while 76% of men admit to perpetrating it at some point in their lives according to the AHO.
• A 2022 study at four Eastern Cape universities revealed that 57.8% of female students had experienced GBVF on campus Tandfonline.
• Minister Blade Nzimande noted in 2022 that 10% of all reported rape cases originated from the higher education sector News24.

Younger women in higher education institutions are particularly at risk due to their age group (18–23), which is a peak period for both victimisation and perpetration of violence Rhodes University.

Barriers to Reporting GBVF

Victims often refrain from reporting GBVF due to:

• Fear of retaliation: Instances of coercion by male lecturers using academic threats.
• Stigma: Anxiety about negative judgment from peers and family.
• Distrust of systems: Ineffective procedures, unclear policies, and perceived prioritisation of institutional reputation over student safety.
• Normalisation: Pervasive daily discrimination faced by women and marginalised groups is often dismissed as ordinary.

Addressing GBVF: A Collective Responsibility

GBVF’s deep-rooted presence stems from intersecting factors, including:

• Prior victimisation, substance abuse, patriarchal norms, and gender inequality.
• South Africa’s historical legacy of apartheid, poverty, unemployment, and weak law enforcement.

The Department of Higher Education and Training’s Policy Framework emphasises consistent condemnation, prosecution of perpetrators, and addressing societal issues.

However, institutions must go further by:

• Enhancing Campus Safety: Improving lighting, security, and eliminating isolated areas.
• Proactive Leadership: Enforcing robust policies and clear reporting mechanisms prioritising student safety over reputation.
• Student Support Services: Offering confidential counselling and fostering a culture of accountability and respect.

The Independent Institute of Education’s Commitment

At the Independent Institute of Education (IIE), including Rosebank College, we enforce a zero-tolerance policy against GBVF. Our Student Conduct and Discipline Policy strictly prohibits any acts of GBVF and ensures appropriate support for victims.

We call on all higher education institutions to create campuses where students feel safe and valued, ensuring an environment conducive to learning and growth.

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Press Release Submitted By

Author: Dr Linda Meyer
Organisation Name: Independent Institute of Education (IIE)
Website: IIE Rosebank College

Total Words: 530

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Combatting GBVF in Higher Education
Small, intentional steps can make campuses safer for all students. Let’s create spaces where true learning thrives.

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