The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Gender Forum hosted a workshop on Gender Equality and Equity in the Workplace on Thursday, 29 October 2026, at the DUT Hotel School Conference Centre, providing a platform for discussions on gender equality, equity and the workplace structures that influence employees’ experiences.
The workshop explored the distinction between gender equality and equity, highlighting the importance of addressing institutional systems, norms and structures that may perpetuate unequal opportunities. Participants were encouraged to reflect on how institutions can create fairer working environments where everyone has equal opportunities to participate, contribute and progress.
“We want to confront institutional barriers, discrimination, and gender-based violence while strengthening measures for safety, trust, and accountability. We also want to align our daily operational practices with essential legislative pillars, including the Constitution, the Employment Equity Act and the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act. Our call to action is for real sustainable change, which requires candid dialogue,” said Mr Deon Chetty, Employment Equity and Skills Development Coordinator of the Gender Forum.
Dr Nkanyiso Madlala, Senior Clinical Psychologist and Employee Wellbeing Practitioner at Discovery Health, led the introductory session and facilitated subsequent discussions throughout the day.
Dr Madlala emphasised the importance of participants taking responsibility for driving change within their professional environments. He also highlighted that employee wellbeing is a shared responsibility between employers and employees.
“Ensuring equality, diversity, inclusion, and mental wellbeing is a shared responsibility. From those of you who have attended this workshop today, what are you going to do differently going forward to ensure that what we discussed in this workshop is operationalised in this institution?” he asked.
The discussions reinforced the need for sustained engagement on gender-related challenges in the workplace, particularly the importance of translating awareness and dialogue into meaningful institutional action.
The workshop concluded with closing remarks by Mr Chetty, followed by a vote of thanks delivered by Ms Lindiwe Mtsweni, Assistant Treasurer of the DUT Gender Forum.
Through initiatives such as this workshop, the DUT Gender Forum continues to create opportunities for dialogue, reflection and collective action towards addressing systemic barriers and building more equitable and inclusive working environments.
Pictured: DUT Gender Forum members.
Photographer: S’phamandla Shabangu
Sompisi Ntuli
