Marking more than a decade of unwavering commitment to the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the HIV and Aids Centre at DUT will host its 12th Annual Silent Protest March on Wednesday, August 26.

Held under the theme: “Silence Speaks: Standing Together Against GBV,” the event will take place at the Fred Crookes Sports Centre, Steve Biko Campus in Durban from 09:00.

The annual Silent Protest March forms part of DUT’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness about GBV, challenge the culture of silence surrounding violence and create a safer, more inclusive environment for students, staff and the broader community.

Also read: Students to hold silent protests against rape

Dr Thobile Zulu, Specialist: HIV/Aids Co-ordinator at DUT, said the Silent Protest March provides an important platform for the university community and stakeholders to stand in solidarity with survivors of GBV while strengthening awareness of the support services available to those affected.

“The DUT Silent Protest provides a platform to engage higher education students from the Durban Metro and uMsunduzi, as well as the broader community, on the continued stigma and silence around gender-based violence. The programme will also share with students the support available on campus for survivors of gender-based violence and create a safe environment where their voices, including those of marginalised communities, can be heard,” said Dr Zulu.

Also read: Solutions to GBV lie in government – GBV champion

Dr Zulu encouraged students and staff to attend the Silent Protest March in numbers and actively participate in the programme.

“We encourage everyone to come out in numbers, join the Silent Protest March and be part of the discussion. This is an opportunity to share challenges, experiences and concerns around GBV. The engagement will contribute towards finding a way forward and assist the University and broader society in addressing this global challenge,” shared Dr Zulu.

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