By Olebogeng Molale
As the country will be observing 16 days of activism against the abuse of women and children from 25 November to 10 December, a group of concerned students at the Sol Plaatje University has called on the university management to address cases of gender based violence speedily. The group says the management has on several occasions, failed to take action against the harassment of students by some lecturers and contract workers who mock LGBTQ students.
The Group representative, Humairaa Hoosen says there have been several incidents of sexual violence at the SPU campus. She indicated that recently a student was sexually harassed near Moroka building by builders who made suggestive comments about her body.
She appealed to the University to take tangible steps to prioritise the safety, health and well-being of women and LGBTQ students. “Sexual harassment and assault are passive crimes. There must be accountability for those who make students feel unsafe, harass women, objectify their bodies, sexualise their existence and abuse them mentally and physically,” said Hoosen.
The University refuted claims that there are a number of complaints on sexual harassment or homophobia. SPU Spokesperson, Kashini Maistry said there had been no formal complaints regarding sexual harassment, rape or homophobia reported through the accepted normal structures provided for in University policies during recent months.
She further stated that SPU has taken measures and has gone to great lengths to ensure that students’ safety remains a priority and urged students to be responsible for their safety. “It is important to note that the safety of any individual also requires responsibility and accountability,” Maistry added.
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