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Michelle Musandinyoze, [email protected]
WESTGATE Industrial Training College officially launched the Safer Campuses Campaign on Monday, marking the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. The event was held under the theme “Fostering a Safer Campuses Environment in Higher and Tertiary Education Institutions: A Healthy Learning Space.”
The campaign aims to eradicate Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in higher and tertiary education institutions across East and Southern Africa.
Speaking at the event in Bulawayo, Dr Edward Gumpo, a board member of the Tertiary Education Service Council (TESC), expressed his honour in attending the launch of the Safer Campuses Campaign, a crucial initiative supported by Unesco through the “Our Rights, Our Lives and Our Future Plus (O3Plus) Project.”
“This campaign aligns with our commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all members of our university community, particularly by increasing awareness of issues surrounding Gender-Based Violence and Sexual Harassment,” Dr Gumpo said.
He noted that a recent baseline study, supported by Unesco across six countries, including Zimbabwe, had highlighted the alarming prevalence of GBV in higher and tertiary education institutions. Dr Gumpo stressed that these findings were not mere statistics, but a reflection of a stark reality demanding immediate action.
“In our universities, students should feel safe, supported and empowered to pursue their education in a productive environment, free from fear and discrimination. However, it is deeply concerning to recognise that cultural and societal norms that perpetuate violence continue to pose serious threats and obstacles for victims and survivors seeking help. It is our responsibility, as educators, leaders and peers, to challenge these norms and create an environment where every individual can thrive,” he said.
Zimbabwe Gender Commission Regional Co-ordinator, Mr Dalubuhle Sibanda, expressed pride in offering solidarity and support for the ground-breaking O3Plus initiative, which seeks to empower young people in tertiary institutions with the knowledge, skills and support needed to succeed.
“By promoting positive health, education and gender outcomes, this comprehensive programme acknowledges the critical role that higher education plays in shaping the minds and futures of young people. At its core, the O3Plus programme aims to create a safe and inclusive campus environment where students feel valued, respected and protected from violence, discrimination and marginalisation,” Mr Sibanda said.
He also pointed out that the initiative aligns with Zimbabwe’s constitutional provisions, which guide the work of the Gender Commission. He highlighted that the constitution enshrines principles of equality, justice and human dignity.
“Section 17 mandates the State to promote full gender balance in Zimbabwean society, ensuring that women have equal opportunities in all spheres, including education, economic, cultural and social spheres.
“By investigating and addressing systemic barriers to gender equality — such as sexual harassment and child marriages — we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for both students and staff in tertiary institutions,” he said.
Mr Sibanda further stressed that the launch was not merely about creating a safe and inclusive environment, but about fostering a culture of empathy, respect and compassion. He added that it was a moment to recognise the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, regardless of background, identity, or affiliation.
The Safer Campuses Campaign was first launched in Zimbabwe by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, Professor Tagwira, at Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences.
Online Reporter