University hosts dialogue to combat sexual harassment

A MEN'S dialogue on sexual harassment will be held at Sol Plaatje University on May 29 in the university auditorium from 4-6 pm. 

Let’s Talk Men Platform project leader Gregory Nyongane said panelist would include EFF provincial leader Shadrack Tlhaole, Advocate Quoton Swartz from the ANC Youth League legal desk.

“A professor from Sol Plaatje University’s Sociology Department, SAPS provincial Gender-Based Violence Unit, Labour Union and community leaders will also lead the discussions. A community-based action plan will be formulated. A men’s charter for safe campuses will be signed.” 

He added that a live ten-minute theatre performance would spotlight real-life cases of workplace and institutional sexual harassment. 

“Audience members will be allowed to participate in facilitated discussions and question-and-answer sessions." 

Nyongane stated that the dialogue was being held in response to recent SAPS statistics and gender rights watchdogs that indicated a consistent rise in sexual harassment incidents in the Northern Cape.

“This has been prevalent over the past five years, particularly in workplaces and tertiary institutions, with low conviction and resolution rates. This dialogue aims to turn denial into action by encouraging men to take leadership in dismantling toxic norms and protecting dignity. By bringing male voices into the centre of the conversation, we aim to dispel the narrative that sexual harassment is a ‘women’s issue’. Real men challenge violence and uphold respect,” he said.