UKZN Hosts Ground-breaking SGBV Awareness and Sensitivity Training Workshop

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a safer, more inclusive academic environment by hosting a Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Awareness and Sensitivity Training Workshop.

The event was held recently on the Pietermaritzburg and Westville campuses.

The workshop was organised by the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science Student Support Services (CAES SSS), in collaboration with the School of Chemistry and Physics (SCP). It was designed for academic and professional services staff to address the urgent need for action against SGBV in Higher Education Institutions.

Facilitators included Ms Shelley Barnsley and Mr Sanele Zuma from CAES SSS, Dr Tamaryn Crankshaw from the Health Economics and HIV/AIDS Research Division (HEARD), Dr Manoshni Perumal from Human Resources Development, Ms Janet Maguire from Human Resources (HR), and Ms Zinhle Dlamini from Risk Management Services (RMS).

The workshop, held under the theme “The Power of Virtue: Towards Building SGBV-Free Learning Institutions”, aimed to empower UKZN staff and educators with the knowledge, skills and practical tools needed to identify, prevent and address SGBV within the University community.

The session featured dynamic discussions, case studies and presentations that offered invaluable insights into the forms, prevalence and profound impact of SGBV. Participants were challenged to reflect on their roles in ensuring institutional accountability and taking proactive steps towards eradicating gender-based violence in academic settings.

The workshop covered several crucial topics, including:

• Understanding SGBV – an in-depth exploration of the various forms of SGBV, its prevalence in South Africa and Higher Education, and the wide-reaching consequences for both victims and institutions.
• Legal frameworks – a review of key legislative acts such as the Sexual Offences Act, the Domestic Violence Act, and the Protection from Harassment Act, as well as the updated legal obligations for university staff.
• Institutional policies and HR responsibilities – a discussion of UKZN’s Sexual Harassment and GBV Policies, grievance procedures, disciplinary codes and available support structures for survivors.
• The psychology of abuse – an examination of underlying causes including socialisation, gender roles, childhood trauma and mental health.
• Referral and response protocols – clear guidance on handling complaints, conducting investigations and accessing support services.
• Fostering a safe and inclusive campus culture – including UKZN’s Men of Virtue programme, leadership roles in GBV prevention, and the University’s Plan of Action to address SGBV across all campuses.

The workshop reinforced UKZN’s unwavering stance on zero tolerance for SGBV, emphasising that every staff member and student has a critical role to play in promoting a culture of respect, accountability and safety. The discussions stressed the importance of early intervention, survivor support and the implementation of strong policies to maintain a safe learning and working environment for all.

UKZN is committed to extending this initiative by hosting additional sessions for other Colleges and Schools. These sessions form part of the University’s ongoing efforts to educate, engage and empower individuals to take action against SGBV – ensuring that all campuses remain spaces free from violence and discrimination.

For further information on SGBV policies and available support services, staff and students are encouraged to visit the UKZN CAES Student Support Services or contact HR directly.

Words and photographs: Cindy Chamane