Durban University of Technology (DUT) students took to the streets for their 10th annual silent protest against gender-based violence (GBV) on Tuesday.
The theme of the protest, which was aimed at raising awareness of gender-based violence, was “One act of GBV equals too many”.
Protesters marched from the Steve Biko campus to Currie’s Fountain. Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training Buti Manamela highlighted the progress made in reporting incidents of GBV at tertiary education institutions.
“While more young women and men are coming forward to report these heinous acts, we cannot be content with just progress in reporting. Our goal is zero cases of GBV – zero tolerance of all its forms, whether physical, mental, emotional, or financial,” Manamela said.
Manamela said the fight against GBV was far from over and people must continue to restate the obvious, to remind everyone of the ongoing struggle, and to stand united against any form of violence.
One of the organisers, HIV/Aids co-ordinator at DUT Thobile Zulu, said this event marked DUT’s long-term commitment to breaking the silence about GBV and creating a safer environment for staff and students. She said the protest also aimed to show solidarity with survivors of GBV.
“The students got the opportunity to share their challenges, experiences and concerns around GBV. The students' engagement will contribute towards a way forward and assist the university in addressing these global challenges,” said Zulu.
Senior director of co-operative affairs at DUT, Alan Khan, said the protest was aimed at providing a platform for DUT to engage with students and the community on the continued stigma and silence around GBV.
Student Representative Council (SRC) and social and welfare representative at DUT, Otto Pupuma, said she was pleased about students’ participation in the protest.
“Silence does not mean inaction, it means strengths, resilience and a united front. Whether you have been directly impacted by GBV or are standing in solidarity with those who have, know that their presence matters. Together we amplify the voices of those who have been silenced and demand justice, respect, and safety for all,” Pupuma said.
Another SRC representative, Slindile Mabonga, said the protest honoured the voices of those who had been silenced.
“Our silence speaks volumes, echoing the pain, resilience and strength of those who continue to fight for justice,” said Mabonga.
At the Curries Fountain Stadium, a Higher Health KwaZulu-Natal mobile clinic offered students primary healthcare services including family planning, HIV screening, and treatment for minor ailments.
It also provided risk assessments on GBV, mental health, and LGBTQI+ issues.
WhatsApp your views on this story to 071 485 7995.
Daily News