Nelson andela University has taken a step towards ensuring the safety and security of its students and staff by launching its Campus Community Safety Forum, in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The launch, which took place on July 19, is a response to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call for a national initiative to make campuses safe.
The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sibongile Muthwa, emphasised the importance of collaboration between the university, law enforcement agencies, and stakeholders to create safer environments.
“It is in our unified responses and co-ordinated efforts that solutions to realise safer spaces will be truly realised and sustained,” she said.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor for People and Operations, Luthando Jack, highlighted the need for vigilance among students and staff, but assured them that the university is doing everything possible to ensure their safety.
“Crime and violence are not only a threat to learning, but they also can have long-lasting physical, emotional, and psychological effects on all individuals involved. We care about our students, staff, and community, and want to keep them safe.”
The launch was attended by SAPS representatives, including station commanders from various police stations. Major General Thokozani Mathonsi emphasised the importance of pro-active policing in higher education institutions, given the increase in crimes on campuses.
“The establishment of the Campus Community Safety Forum will give impetus to the implementation of the campus safety programme,” he said.
The forum will address issues such as institutionalising community policing, policing student protests, standardising campus safety requirements, and establishing safety standards.
The university’s Transformation Office, Protection Services, and Communication and Marketing Division are working together to further the goals of the forum.
Future plans include establishing a place of safety to provide temporary refuge for students who need to leave their residences, due to fear of encountering a perpetrator of gender-based violence.
