Root out sexual violence- Manana
Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Mduduzi Manana, opens dialogue aimed at reducing high levels of rape in the higher education and training sectors
SEX-FOR-MARKS, harassment of colleagues and students and gender-based violence were the main focus areas during a dialogue at the University of Zululand (Unizulu) on Friday.
Spearheaded by the Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Mduduzi Manana, the dialogue aims to curb the high levels of rape in the higher education sector.
According to Manana, research shows that targets of sexual harassment and particularly sex-for-marks practices, are often those who are vulnerable.
He said victims normally fear to report incidents to relevant authorities.
Manana said the dialogue aimed to bring issues and real-life experiences into the open, stimulate action and introspection and also gather evidence on causes and responses to the problem.
‘This journey will continue during the year as we face up to the ugly reality that sexual and gender-based violence frequently takes place in our institutions. To elicit action, we need to be clear and call the problems by their names.
‘Rape and sexual violations happen because of anger and disempowerment. These also occur because of arrogance and a sense of entitlement,’ he said.
‘No matter what the underlying cause, it is always wrong and unacceptable.
‘There is a need for a more coherent and thoughtful sectoral approach. This is why we are here today, to hear from you, the students and staff working in our sector, so we can provide the support needed to keep our universities and colleges safe,’ said Manana.
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