During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a marked increase in Gender-Based Violence (GBV) reported in South Africa, including at the University of Cape Town (UCT). The damaging emotional and psychological effect of Gender-Based Violence can negatively affect students’ lives in many ways, including their academic performance and the quality of their social interactions. It can also result in students needing to take a leave of absence from their studies or even dropping out of university. If unsupported, students can carry this trauma beyond their studies.

At UCT, our Gender-Based Violence response and support takes various forms. It can be:

• a survivor care pack – which affords a survivor dignity post-trauma;
• or it may be an Uber to Court;
• emergency evacuation and temporary placement in accommodation while permanent accommodation is located;
• human support during justice-seeking processes and psychological services.

PLEDGE YOUR SUPPORT TODAY

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