The conference, running from 3 to 5 December, was co-hosted by Nelson Mandela University, Walter Sisulu University, the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University, in collaboration with the Commission for Gender Equality.
Under the theme “From Policy to Practice: Enhancing Accountability in GBV Responses and Gender Transformation in Higher Education Institutions”, the conference brought together academics, policymakers and students to chart a way forward in addressing GBV in higher education.
Speaking truth to power
Asiphe Mxalisa, a PhD candidate at Rhodes University and former student activist at Mandela University, opened the session by emphasising the lived realities of students navigating unsafe campus environments.
“Policies mean nothing if they don’t translate into real change for us. We need to see action, not just documents collecting dust in administrative offices,” said Mxalisa, drawing applause from the audience.
Mxalisa called for accessible reporting systems and immediate consequences for perpetrators, noting, “Survivors often feel silenced by the bureaucracy. We need mechanisms that are survivor-centred, transparent and responsive.”
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Proposals rooted in experience
Aphelele Maliwa, of the University of Fort Hare, highlighted the importance of integrating GBV awareness into the curriculum.
“Education is our most powerful tool for change. Universities must prioritise GBV education in every discipline, teaching empathy and accountability from the ground up,” Maliwa suggested.
Chumani Mcengwa, from Mandela University, criticised the lack of student involvement in policy formulation.
“Too often, policies are created without the voices of those most affected. If universities are serious about transformation, students must be at the table from the beginning,” said Mcengwa.
Mcengwa also proposed a peer-led mentorship programme to support survivors and educate peers on gender equity.
“We are each other’s first line of defence, and we can lead the change we wish to see,” Mcengwa said.
Balancing policy and activism
Nicole Berry, representing Walter Sisulu University, brought attention to the intersection of mental health and GBV.
“Survivors face not only the trauma of their experiences but also the stigma and mental health challenges that follow. Universities need to invest in comprehensive support systems, including counselling services,” she said.
Berry emphasised the role of collective accountability.
“This isn’t just the administration’s problem; it’s ours too. Students, staff and management must collaborate to create campuses that are safe and inclusive for everyone,” Berry said.
Leadership takes note
In response to the students’ contributions, the session facilitator acknowledged their insights as critical for effective transformation.
“The voices we’ve heard today remind us that our policies must be rooted in the realities of those they serve. Students are not just beneficiaries; they are co-creators in this journey toward accountability and safety,” she said.
Moving forward
The session highlighting students’ voices underscored the conference’s core objective: bridging the gap between policy and practical implementation.
By foregrounding student voices, the event highlighted the importance of inclusive, participatory approaches to tackling GBV in higher education. As the discussions continue, it is hoped that the energy and ideas shared by these young leaders will catalyse lasting change.
This year’s CoP conference has proven that transformation is not just a top-down process—it’s a collective effort where every voice matters, especially those of the students who live these realities daily.