Women in South Africa face increased risks of gender-based violence (GBV) during the festive season, prompting renewed calls for awareness and accountability. Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister Dr Mimmy Gondwe is urging students, families, and institutions to act responsibly, particularly around alcohol use and misuse of NSFAS funds.
What Students and Communities Need to Know
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), working with the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE), SAPS, the NPA and Higher Health, is intensifying anti-GBV campaigns on campuses. These efforts include peer-to-peer education and wellness support, with a focus on students’ financial and personal safety.
Deputy Minister Dr Gondwe says the festive season often brings a spike in alcohol abuse and risky behaviour.
“We must be mindful of how we use NSFAS funds. Alcohol and gambling are not part and parcel of your education,” she said.
Government Actions and Programmes
Targeted Interventions
- Transforming MEN’talities: A national programme encouraging young men to reject violence and abuse.
- GBV Risk Assessments: Over 316,000 students have completed Higher Health’s screening tools across universities and TVET colleges.
- GBV Awareness Curriculum: More than 367,000 students have participated in training that includes modules on financial literacy, alcohol, drugs, and GBV.
Deputy Minister Dr Gondwe highlights the value of these tools in addressing harmful behaviour:
“That financial literacy component is critical. It teaches students how to use NSFAS money responsibly, and covers issues like alcohol and gambling abuse,” she said.
Practical Steps for Students
Deputy Minister Dr Gondwe urges students to:
- Join financial literacy and soft-skills programmes through Higher Health
- Avoid using NSFAS money for alcohol, gambling or drugs
- Use campus support systems or call the 24-hour helpline: 0800 36 36 36
- Participate in peer-led support groups focused on GBV, HIV, and mental health
She also warns students that abuse will have consequences:
“If you abuse women, you will be arrested and thrown out of school,” she said.
Key Facts About GBV and Holiday Risks
- GBV and femicide have been declared a national disaster by the National Disaster Management Centre
- President Cyril Ramaphosa called GBVF a national crisis ahead of the 16 Days of Activism campaign
- DHET and Higher Health say misuse of NSFAS money on alcohol and gambling is linked to rising GBV cases
Official Resources and Support
- Higher Health Crisis Line: 0800 36 36 36
- Gender Equality Commission: www.cge.org.za
- Higher Health Info: www.higherhealth.ac.za
- Police Emergency (SAPS): 10111
