Sol Plaatje University relaunches gender and safety desk

SOL PLAATJE University will mark the close of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children by relaunching its Gender-Based Violence Safety and Reporting desk on December 10.

The director of Institutional Advancement in the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Kashini Maistry, said the relaunch reinforced the SPU’s commitment to building a campus environment rooted in dignity, justice and accountability.

"The desk will provide 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."

She added that gender-based violence remained 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."

Maistry said the keynote address would focus 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."

She indicated that the Safety and Reporting Desk would be 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," Maistry stated.