In a stirring show of unity and commitment to ending gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in their communities, the staff of West Coast College came together on Friday 13 June at Christian Primary School in Malmesbury to officially launch the 100-Day Challenges Campaign.
The event, observed as a Solidarity Day, drew staff members from across campuses, all dressed in black to symbolise their collective stance against GBVF. A highlight of the day was a solidarity walk through the streets of Malmesbury, where college staff carried messages of support and non-violence, powerful visual affirmations of their commitment to ending GBVF.
The walk served as a visible public display of the college’s dedication to social justice, safety, and accountability in the communities it serves.
The programme featured heartfelt messages and words of support from key stakeholders, including:
• The West Coast College Council
• The West Coast College Student Representative Council
• The Department of Correctional Services
• Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness
• The National Prosecuting Authority
• Swartland Municipality
• Higher Health
• South African Police Service
Delicious de Vos, representing the Disability Unit of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, delivered a compelling keynote address, urging the college staff to engage in deliberate, ongoing efforts within their areas of influence to combat the persistent scourge of GBVF. Lungisa Mbulaw, principal of West Coast College, said the day was more than symbolic; it was a call to action. “It reminds us of our shared responsibility to reflect, take action and remain steadfast in the ongoing fight against GBVF. As an institution of learning and transformation we recognise our role in shaping not only minds, but also the values and behaviours that can lead to lasting societal change.”
The day culminated in a symbolic pledge, in which all staff placed their painted handprints on a wall banner in a visually powerful and lasting commitment.
