Eastern Cape
Ikhala TVET Hosts GBV Awareness March to Sterkspruit Police Station
Students March Against GBV During Awareness Campaign in Sterkspruit
Students, community leaders and officials gathered in Sterkspruit this week as part of a campaign aimed at raising awareness about gender-based violence and mental health challenges affecting students.
The event formed part of the SATVETSA Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) and Mental Health Awareness Campaign, which was hosted at the Ikhala TVET College Sterkspruit Campus.
Participants included students and officials from eight TVET colleges, alongside representatives from the National Prosecuting Authority, local government, and organisations working in student health and safety.
Solidarity March to Police Station
On the second day of the campaign, participants took part in a solidarity march through Sterkspruit. The march began at Ikhala TVET College and proceeded to the Sterkspruit Police Station.
Students carried messages calling for safer campuses and greater support for victims of gender-based violence.
The event brought together multiple stakeholders, including the Mayor of Walter Sisulu Local Municipality, representatives from Higher Health, and other partners focused on improving student wellbeing.
Memorandum of Demands Submitted
At the conclusion of the march, a Memorandum of Demands was formally handed over to Sterkspruit Station Commander Colonel Siphambu.
The memorandum outlines concerns raised by students and calls for stronger cooperation between law enforcement, local government and education institutions to improve safety and support systems for students.
The document was formally acknowledged and signed by several leaders present at the event, including:
-
Walter Sisulu Local Municipality Mayor Mrs Davids
-
Sterkspruit Station Commander Colonel Siphambu
-
Ikhala TVET College Principal Mr Ntlangano
The signing symbolised a joint commitment by stakeholders to work together to address safety concerns and promote a safer learning environment for students.
Focus on Student Safety and Mental Health
Organisers said the campaign is designed to encourage open discussion about the impact of gender-based violence and mental health challenges within student communities.
The initiative also aims to strengthen collaboration between education institutions, government authorities and support organisations in addressing these issues.
Participants emphasised that tackling GBV and improving mental health support requires sustained cooperation between communities, law enforcement and educational institutions.
The Sterkspruit campaign forms part of broader efforts taking place across TVET colleges to raise awareness, encourage reporting of abuse and ensure students feel safe on campus.
Support Independent Local Journalism
Komani News continues to report on important community issues across the region.
Readers who would like to support independent local journalism can do so here:
