The Durban University of Technology Convocation has taken a stance to join students and the entire South Africa in fighting violence against women.

In a meeting held on the 27th May 2017, the DUT Convocation Executive Committee felt the need to address the issue of a recent spate of incidents of violence against women and children.

“These acts are contrary to the values and ideals of the people of South Africa as encapsulated in our constitution. The statistic on violence and abuse of women and children in this country are not only shocking but are an indictment on all South Africans and everything we value as a country,” said Sibongile Yaka, DUT Convocation Deputy President.

Although this was not a tabled item on the agenda for the Convocation Executive Committee meeting, the issue was addressed. The matter was discussed after the University Student Representative Council (SRC) called on the eThekwini Municipality to take a stand in crimes against women and children.

Further addressing on how the university community can take part in playing a role in fighting social crimes that affect women and children, the Convocation of DUT called upon all men and women to rise up against such unacceptable behaviour.

“Let us speak against all forms of violence and make it clear to all that such behaviour cannot and will not be tolerated. Let us also not be complicit and stand by and watch while harm is inflicted on another,” added Wiseman Madinane, DUT Chairperson of Council and President of Convocation.

Pictured: Sibongile Yaka (DUT Convocation Deputy President) and Wiseman Madinane (DUT Chairperson of Council and President of Convocation).

Noxolo Memela