Gender-based violence policy framework released for comment

The Department of Higher Education and Training has made headway towards implementing a gender-based violence policy at institutions of higher learning, Zululand Observer reports.

The public has until 3 June to submit comments on the draft policy framework to address the issue.

The policy framework compels institutions to create awareness of gender-based policies and prevent incidents of violence.

This follows a number of cases at universities across the country, including the murder of Zolile Khumalo of eShowe, who was killed, allegedly by an ex-boyfriend at the Mangosuthu University of Technology student residences in Durban last year.

According to research by the Higher Education and Training HIV/Aids Programme (HEAIDS), 10% of reported rape cases involved university students, while 62% of students surveyed felt those female students would be sexually harassed on campus.

Comments can be emailed to the Director: Social Inclusion and Equity, Sesi Mahlobogoane at socialinclusion@dhet.gov.za.