The SAPS in Lejweleputswa District Partnership Policing, including members from Thabong and Welkom SAPS, participated in a multidisciplinary gender-based violence (GBV) awareness and campus safety campaign on 14 May at the Central University of Technology Welkom Campus.

Sgt Majoala Frans Malindi engaged students on matters relating to GBV and highlighted the importance of personal safety, responsible conduct, and reporting criminal activities without fear.

He shared practical safety advice with learners, including avoiding isolated areas, safeguarding personal belongings, remaining vigilant when moving on and off campus, travelling in groups where possible, and promptly reporting suspicious activities to authorities.

Sgt Malindi recommended the establishment of a Campus Safety Committee that would serve as a collaborative structure between students, campus management, police and relevant stakeholders to continuously address safety concerns, strengthen communication, and coordinate crime prevention initiatives within the institution.

The initiative formed part of ongoing efforts aimed at strengthening relations between law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, and the youth while promoting safer learning environments free from violence, intimidation, and criminality.

Gwnder-based violence

During the engagement, police members together with various stakeholders interacted with students on matters relating to gender-based violence, campus-related crimes, personal safety, substance abuse, and other social challenges affecting learners both on and off campus.

Informative GBV awareness pamphlets were distributed to students to further educate and empower them with knowledge on prevention, reporting mechanisms, and available support structures.

Learners were given an opportunity to openly engage with the multidisciplinary team and raise concerns regarding criminal activities and safety challenges experienced within and outside the campus environment.

The engagement created a platform for meaningful dialogue and encouraged students to become active participants in crime prevention initiatives.

Police highlighted the importance of collaboration between law enforcement, academic institutions, community structures, and students in addressing crime and social challenges affecting young people.

Students were encouraged to report criminal activities and support victims of abuse

Students were encouraged to report criminal activities, support victims of abuse, and make esponsible decisions that contribute towards safer communities and institutions of higher learning.

A commitment and pledge were collectively made that such educational awareness campaigns and engagements will be hosted quarterly throughout the year in order to sustain awareness, strengthen partnerships, and continuously promote campus safety and the fight against gender-based violence. The SAPS Lejweleputswa District remains committed to building safer communities through education, awareness, visibility, and proactive stakeholder partnerships.