GBV & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS – EC TVET COLLEGES UNITED
Break the silence. Stand against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide and prioritise mental health support.Together, we can create safer campuses and stronger communities
Eastern Cape TVET Colleges stand united in the fight against Gender-Based Violence and the mental health scourge affecting our communities.Together we are building campuses where every student feels respected, protected and supported.
Break the Silence Support Survivors Prioritise Mental HealthSATVETSA GBV & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS CAMPAIGN
7 March 2026
Day 3 of the SATVETSA Eastern Cape GBV & Mental Health Awareness Campaign focused on dialogue, solutions and strengthening support systems for survivors across TVET colleges.
Ms Zimkitha Bula from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) delivered an insightful presentation on the work being done through the Thuthuzela Care Centres, highlighting the integrated support and justice services available to victims of Gender-Based Violence.
Mr Khanya Picane, SSS Manager at King Hintsa TVET College, unpacked the different forms of GBV and emphasised the importance of strengthening institutional support for survivors, while also outlining preventative measures that colleges should implement to protect students.
Ms Marcia Kalibi-Muwansa from Higher Health also shared information on the psychosocial, health and wellness support services available to assist students affected by GBV and mental health challenges.
The programme also featured a powerful testimony from GBV survivor Phelokazi Bilikwa, who bravely shared her personal journey of overcoming her ordeal, inspiring students and attendees with a message of resilience, healing and hope.
Students from the participating colleges also took part in presentations, sharing their experiences on campuses, proposing solutions and highlighting ways in which support systems for GBV victims can be strengthened within TVET institutions.
The discussions reinforced the collective commitment to creating safer campuses and breaking the cycle of Gender-Based Violence.
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6 March 2026
Day 2 of the SATVETSA GBV and Mental Health Awareness programme was successfully hosted at the Ikhala TVET College Sterkspruit Campus, bringing together students, college officials, social partners and community leadership in a united stand against Gender-Based Violence and in support of mental health awareness.
The students and officials from eight TVET Colleges, together with representatives from the National Prosecuting Authority, the Mayor from Walter Sisulu Local Municipality, and social partners such as Higher Health, gathered in Sterkspruit for a powerful march advocating for GBV and mental health awareness.
The march began at the Sterkspruit Campus and proceeded to the Sterkspruit Police Station, where a Memorandum of Demands (MOD) was officially handed over to the Station Commander, Colonel Siphambu. The memorandum was signed by the Mayor, Mrs Davids, the Station Commander, and Mr Ntlangano who is the Principal of Ikhala TVET College, symbolising a collective commitment to addressing safety concerns affecting students.
Among the key issues raised in the memorandum were:
β’ Increased police visibility across campuses and student residences
β’ Improved safety measures in student accommodation
β’ Prompt response from the police when students report crimes on campuses and at residences
The march was a resounding success, demonstrating the power of collaboration between students, institutions, law enforcement, and community partners in building safer learning environments and promoting mental well-being.
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5 March 2026
Students from eight TVET colleges across the Eastern Cape gathered for the SATVETSA Provincial GBV and Mental Health Campaign, engaging in meaningful dialogue on Gender-Based Violence and mental health through a bonfire discussion session.
The discussions focus on strengthening awareness campaigns and educational programmes within our institutions to ensure that students are well informed about GBV, consent, respect, and healthy relationships. Participants emphasise the importance of continuous awareness initiatives, peer-led education, and integrating GBV education into student orientation programmes to build a campus culture rooted in dignity and respect.
Another key focus is the support systems available for students who have experienced GBV. Institutions must ensure that survivors have access to confidential reporting channels, professional counselling services, and safe spaces where they can seek support without fear of stigma. Improving accessibility to these services remains essential in ensuring that every student feels protected and supported.
Together, students across the province reaffirm their commitment to building campuses that are safe, inclusive, and free from gender-based violence.
SATVETSA GBVF & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS CAMPAIGNΒ
Join us for awareness talks, support sessions, and powerful conversations that inspire change.Dates:Β 5 β 7 March 2026
Venue:Β Sterkspruit Campus
Venue:Β Sterkspruit Campus
Gender-Based Violence affects us all. Mental health matters every day. Letβs break the silence, raise awareness, and build a safer, healthier society for everyone.
Your Voice Matters. Your Mind Matters. Your Safety Matters.
STAND TOGETHER: FOSTERING AN INCLUSIVE & SAFE CAMPUS ENVIRONMENT
The College SRC hosted an awareness event at Kemsley Park Site on Friday, 31 October 2025, for all students.
The initiative aimed to inform students about serious social challenges. Topics included understanding and supporting the LGBTQ+ community, taking a stand against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), a critical issue in our country, and highlighting the importance of mental health.
Students participated in various fun and interactive sessions, and the event was well attended.
A big thank you to the SRC organising team for their efforts!
