Wits' commitment to social justice
- Social Justice Cluster
Wits stands firmly against all forms of bullying, discrimination and gender-based harms, recognising that these injustices undermine the rights of individuals.
Wits University is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive and equity-centred environment where all members of its diverse community can excel and reach their full potential. The University stands firmly against all forms of bullying, discrimination and gender-based harms, recognising that these injustices undermine the dignity, rights and well-being of individuals and the broader community.
Anti-Bullying and Anti-Discrimination
Bullying, whether physical, verbal, cyber-related or psychological, has no place in the University or in our society. Discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, religion, nationality, or any other identity marker should similarly be eradicated.
Zero Tolerance for Gender-Based Harms and Violence
Wits acknowledges the urgent need to combat gender-based harms and is committed to preventing and addressing all forms of sexual and gender-related harms through advocacy, policy enforcement, survivor-centred support services and accountability mechanisms.
Inclusivity and Accessibility
Wits ensures that students and staff with disabilities are not disadvantaged in their academic or social experiences. It promotes inclusivity through reasonable accommodation, support and advocacy, resources, training and awareness, and collaboration and partnerships, both within and beyond the University.
Our Commitment
We commit to:
- Reviewing and enforcing policies that protect against bullying, discrimination and gender-based harms,
- Providing accessible reporting mechanisms and ensure that cases are handled with sensitivity and fairness,
- Offering support, including psychosocial support, legal assistance and advocacy, for those affected, and
- Engaging in ongoing education and awareness campaigns to challenge harmful norms and to foster a culture of respect and equity.
Wits is a space for learning, growth and transformation. We urge every member of the Wits community to uphold the principles of accessibility and justice, to stand in solidarity against gender-based harms, and to contribute to a University environment that is inclusive and empowering for all #WitsForGood.
沙巴体育官网_2024欧洲杯博彩app@ the Social Justice Cluster
The commitment is formally embodied through the Gender Equity Office (GEO) and the Transformation and Employment Equity Office (TEEO) who work tirelessly to foreground and facilitate inclusivity, awareness, sensitisation activities, events and workshops that challenge the presence of bullying, discrimination and gender-based harms. These offices provide avenues for support should any member of the University community experience sexual and gender-related harm, bullying and/or discrimination. In addition, the Disability Rights Unit (DRU) is dedicated to supporting students and staff with disabilities, promoting equal opportunities and eliminating barriers that could hinder their academic and professional success and overall experience. They ensure a conducive learning and working environment and develop and implement relevant disability rights policies.
Reach OutTransformation Office and Policies Several policies and procedures have been developed to prevent and eradicate bullying and discrimination. Contact: Thembekile Madondo (Social Justice Manager) via Thembekile.madondo@wits.ac.za or Ciaran Heywood (Social Justice Coordinator) via Ciaran.heywood@wits.ac.za. Gender Equity Office and Policies Members of the University community are encouraged to familiarise themselves with policies and procedures to report cases. To report sexual and/or gender-related misconduct email info.geo@wits.ac.za or contact any team member. For full support, members with special needs must register with the Disability Rights Unit. For detailed information or assistance, please contact the DRU directly via Dr Leila Abdool Gafoor at leila.abdoolgafoor@wits.ac.za Counselling services available 24/7/365Student Crisis Line: 0800 111 331 Staff Wellness Partner: 0800 004 770 |