21 August 2025

STATEMENT BY THE COUNCIL OF PE TVET COLLEGE ON ALLEGATIONS OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND GENDER BASED VIOLENCE AT THE COLLEGE.

The Council of Port Elizabeth TVET College notes with great concern the allegations of sexual harassment and gender-based violence raised by the students at the college during their protest.

We want to indicate that we take these allegations with the seriousness they deserve, and we will respond appropriately after their review, including actions that will be taken to ensure student safety.

It is so saddening that these are coming to light during a month where South African women are supposed to be celebrating the heroic sacrifices of the Women of 1956, who led the historic march against apartheid.

It is disheartening to hear students expressing concerns about their safety on campus, in a place that is supposed to be a comfortable learning and training environment. As the council, we are committed to ensuring that this goal of creating a safe space for students is realised, and this is why we take their concerns with the requisite seriousness.

The Council will consider the details of the grievances by the students and the management update thus far in order to determine a suitable way forward that will ensure that students feel safe on the campuses of the college.

ISSUED ON BEHALF OF COUNCIL BY
LUZUKO BUKU
CHAIRPERSON OF COUNCIL OF THE INTERIM COUNCIL OF PORT ELIZABETH TVET COLLEGE