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UFS declares zero-tolerance against gender-based violence

24 November 2023 | Story Valentino Ndaba | Photo SUPPLIED

UFS KovsieCare GBV Social Media — The UFS is joining forces with the international community during the annual 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.

As the world will soon commemorate the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) campaign, the University of the Free State (UFS) joins the fight against this pervasive issue. Dedicated to eradicating GBV and fostering a safe environment, the institution has pledged an unwavering commitment to a zero-tolerance stance against all forms of GBV.

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual global initiative that starts on 25 November 2023 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women – and concludes on 10 December 2023 – Human Rights Day. The theme for this year, ‘Accelerating actions to end gender-based violence and femicide: leaving no one behind’, emphasises the need for a comprehensive, inclusive effort to combat GBV.

Legislation addressing GBV

Gender-based violence, rooted in the systemic imbalance of power and authority, manifests in multifaceted forms that encompass emotional, physical, financial, and sexual abuse, among others. Recognising the gravity of this issue, parliament has enacted laws, including the Domestic Violence Act of 1998 and the Children's Act of 2005, striving to safeguard individuals from such atrocities and championing fundamental human rights.

The UFS, aligned with parliament's vision and encapsulating its own Vision 130 within the 2023-2028 Strategic Plan, remains steadfast in its dedication to fostering a culture of accountability, care, and social justice within its staff and student community.

The significance of activism

Dr Lentsu Nchabeleng, Deputy Director in the Gender Equality and Anti-Discrimination Office (GEADO), emphasised the pivotal role of the 16 Days of Activism in societal progress. “Advocacy plays an important role in prevention by promoting education and awareness. Advocacy challenges harmful societal norms and stereotypes that contribute to gender-based violence and can help foster a culture of equality and respect," she stated.

Useful resources

The UFS has provided resources for the staff and student community, including frequently asked questions (FAQs) about GBV and sexual offences, aiming to clarify these important matters. Help and reporting avenues for GBV and sexual misconduct are available on the Bloemfontein and South campuses, with similar support available on the Qwaqwa Campus, underscoring the university's dedication to a safe and supportive environment for all.

Click to download the resource documents:

Important contacts

The university has also implemented support systems, including dedicated 24-hour toll-free helplines for reporting GBV and sexual offenses, underscoring its commitment to addressing this epidemic.

GEADO toll-free: 0800 204 682
UFS Student Careline toll-free: 0800 00 6363

News Archive

University welcomes new first-year students

2014-01-20

"Welcome to Kovsieland! The time of your life has just begun."

With these words Prof Jonathan Jansen, Vice-Chancellor and Rector, welcomed thousands of new first-year students. They attended a welcome ceremony with parents and guardians on the Bloemfontein Campus.

The arrival of first-year students saw the campus come to life, with the area in front of the Main Building turned into an open-air venue. A festive atmosphere prevailed, with live music filling the air and residences camping on the grass surrounding the area. Those who came out to welcome the new first-years, included members of the rectorate, the deans of all seven faculties and the student leadership.

"You are the smartest in the country," Prof Jansen told the new Kovsie students, informing them that thousands applied, but did not make it because of limited space. "We took the best students," he informed the large crowd, telling them that the more than 4 000 new Kovsies come from all over South Africa and the continent.

"This university is about high academic standards for its staff and its students. This is a place where we respect people, irrespective of where they come from, how they pray and how they love," Prof Jansen added.

Prof Jansen brought laugher to the audience, sharing tips for first-years from senior students, among them jewels like, "Wear flip-flops in the shower, you never know what the science students left behind" and "Don't keep your boyfriend back home, you never know what you will get at the university."

Phiwe Mathe, SRC President of the Bloemfontein Campus, added to the list of tips, telling first-years to have a hunger for knowledge and be open minded. "Participate in life on campus and ask important questions," he urged them. "There is plenty to learn at this university. "

Here is an idea where our students come from:
Eastern Cape: 395
Free State: 1701
Gauteng: 632
KwaZulu-Natal: 692
Limpopo: 333
Mpumalanga: 211
Northern Cape: 313
North-West Province: 243
Western Cape: 171

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