On 25 June, the UFH Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Gender Diversity Office (GBVPGD), in partnership with the DSI-NRF SARChI in Sexualities, Genders and Queer Studies and the Human Resources (HR) Department, hosted a “lunchtime conversation” on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Gender Diversity in the Workplace. The event gave UFH staff the opportunity to engage on new GBV policy changes, gender diversity, and staff wellbeing.
Why It Matters
In her opening remarks on why this moment mattered, the Director in Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Dr Irma Du Plessis spoke passionately about the significant milestones the university has achieved and continues to undergo, from the first policy adopted in 2019 to the most recently approved GBV policy in November 2024. She emphasized how the moment marked a new era as the institution moved towards gender transformation and equity at all levels. Dr Du Plessis applauded the three units that collaborated to bring together this engaging event.
This was further corroborated by Institutional Forum representative Mr Siyabulela Jabavu, who highlighted the forum’s commitment to driving and advocating for gender-transformative policies and equitable representation of marginalized groups in decision-making structures and bodies across the institution.
“Here to Serve”
In an engaging panel conversation, Dr Munyaka, HR Special Advisor, underscored the importance of reimagining the HR department as an office that is about people and policy and is “here to serve” the broader UFH community. Central to the conversation was the issue of diversity and representation of all sexualities and genders in the institution. Ms. Lihlumile Nomavayi emphasized the use of inclusive language, respect, and that going beyond the binary as an institution was essential in realizing a truly inclusive environment embedded in Ubuntu.
Silence is not an Option
On the complicity of complacency, the GBVPGD Investigating Officer, Advocate Palesa Mpapa reiterated by reminding us “that silence is not an option” when it comes to GBV and gender-based discrimination, and that we all have a part to play in preventing GBV and reporting it when it happens.
In closing, the Director of the GBVPGD Office, Ms. Sibanda Moyo, said these will be ongoing conversations and encouraged all staff members to engage and participate.
Way Forward — Staff called for ongoing training and awareness initiatives on gender diversity, sexuality, and inclusion to ensure that all employees feel equipped to contribute to a safe and supportive work environment.
