As we close off the national 16 Days of Activism, Sol Plaatje University will mark this moment with the relaunch of its Gender-Based Violence Safety and Reporting Desk. This relaunch reinforces the University’s commitment to building a campus environment rooted in dignity, justice and accountability and to providing immediate, accessible support for anyone affected by gender-based violence.
The Desk operates every hour, every day and serves as a dedicated point for reporting harm and accessing assistance. Its relaunch strengthens visibility and awareness and expands the pathways available to students and staff who may need urgent help or guidance.
Gender-based violence remains one of the most urgent and devastating challenges in South Africa. As a public institution, SPU recognises that its responsibility extends beyond the national 16 Days of Activism period. The relaunch forms part of a continued effort to prioritise safety, uphold human rights and ensure that all who study and work at SPU are treated with care, respect and integrity.
The event will include a keynote address focused on the ethical and social responsibility of higher education institutions in addressing gender-based violence. A symbolic candlelight moment will honour survivors and those lost to violence, while a ribbon cutting ceremony will mark the enhanced visibility and renewed commitment of the Desk.
The Safety and Reporting Desk is supported through collaboration with the South African Police Service and community partners working to prevent and respond to gender-based violence. Together these partnerships strengthen reporting mechanisms and uphold SPU’s zero tolerance approach to gender-based violence.
You are invited to join the University community as we relaunch this important support point and reaffirm our collective commitment to safety, dignity and accountability.
For media enquiries please contact:
Ms Kashini Maistry
kashini.maistry@spu.ac.za
082 806 6114
