The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) staff and students stood united against the brutal reality of gender-based violence (GBV) recently, observing 15 minutes of silence ahead of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign (25 November to 10 December).

The poignant display of solidarity highlighted the need for urgent action in the light of GBV continuing to wreak havoc, leaving survivors with indelible scars and a nation numbed by the sheer scale of the crisis. It also emphasised UKZN’s commitment to the fight against the social evil.

Members of UKZN’s immediate community gathered across all five campuses, clad in black and purple to demonstrate their solidarity with the national campaign. They also pinned personal messages to ‘walls of remembrance’ across the campuses. 

On the Medical School campus, the silence concluded with an emotional song that echoed through the corridors and grounds, followed by an inspiring address from student feminist, Ms Amahle Dlamini, whose powerful words left the crowd inspired and deeply moved.

On the Westville campus, staff and students stood – the atmosphere powerful and reflective. Groups gathered – holding placards with messages of support and solidarity, while others pinned notes onto a dedicated remembrance board, each containing heartfelt messages. The stillness of the moment symbolised the campus community’s collective commitment to raising awareness and strengthening the fight against GBV.

In a statement, Ms Normah Zondo, Executive Director: Corporate Relations Division, reaffirmed that UKZN stands solidly against all forms of GBV saying the ongoing crisis – an estimated 15 women lose their lives to GBV every single day in South Africa – remains a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action.

Said Zondo: “As an institution committed to social justice and human dignity, UKZN joins the nation in calling for an end to GBV and in honouring those whose lives have been taken far too soon. Let us affirm our collective resolve to confront gender-based violence and promote justice, healing, and lasting change.”