UKZN Students Rally Against GBV

BY: .

Her Space, a newly formed women’s forum under the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Department of Student Residence Affairs (DSRA), held a march on the Howard College campus on 23 May to raise awareness about gender-based violence (GBV).

The event brought students together in a show of unity and purpose, while a similar event was held on the Medical School campus hosted by various student societies in partnership with the College of Health Sciences Student Support Services team.

With support from the South African Police Service (SAPS) and UKZN Risk Management Services, the Howard College campus march proceeded smoothly from Gate 1 to Gate 10, drawing a strong turnout of students, residence leaders, staff, and allies.

Participants carried powerful placards with messages such as “No Means No”, “Enough is Enough”, and “Stop GBV Now”, amid chanting and singing all in high spirits. 

The mood was jubilant, energetic, and empowering, reflecting both the urgency of the cause and unity among those demanding change. ‘This march was about reclaiming space, raising our voices, and letting survivors know they are not alone,’ said Ms Sebongile Tshabalala, who was one of the student organisers. ‘GBV is a crisis, and we’re here to say: It ends with us.’

While the forum is still in its early stages, Her Space is quickly emerging as a force for advocacy and transformation. Through this event and others, the forum aims to challenge campus norms, empower women students, and promote long-term institutional accountability in the fight against GBV.

On the Medical School campus a Community Circle event was held where it was emphasised that GBV is rooted in patriarchal systems, economic inequality, and the normalisation of violence. The wide range of speakers called for collective action to challenge gender norms, raise awareness, create protective systems for survivors, and change societal attitudes. They stressed the importance of seeking justice rather than justification when addressing cases of violence against women and the vulnerable. 

Student counsellors spoke about supporting survivors, outlining steps to support abuse victims, including active listening, validation, and ensuring safety. Reporting of incidents holds perpetrators accountable, and legal recourse can take place. Further, reporting can connect survivors with essential support services, such as counselling, medical care, and legal assistance. 

Participants at the event were informed that support for both survivors and perpetrators are available at UKZN. 

The session concluded with calls for unity, support for survivors, and societal change to prevent future incidents.

Words: Nduduzo Duma

Photographs: Nkosikhona Gcabashe