Students from Eastcape Midlands TVET College in Heath Park took to Stanford Road this morning, Tuesday 26 August, in a passionate plea for authorities to tackle escalating crime and gender-based violence in their community.
Student Liaison Officer Victor Jantjies, who organised the event, said it was time the Bethelsdorp community stood up against rising crime.
“There is a diverse range of crimes taking place, from rape to kidnapping and murder of women, which have become more prevalent,” he commented.
He explained that they hoped to raise awareness, especially during Women’s Month.
“Gun violence, drugs and gangsterism are tearing our communities apart and having a negative impact on residents,” he shared. “It is not only affecting the community but our own students, who are being victimised.”
Student Keesha McPherson shared how the simple act of walking down the street in her neighbourhood fills her with fear.
“I am scared because anything can happen and nobody does anything about it,” she shared with the PE Express. “I feel like I’m constantly living in fear.”
For student Siyolise Tshazibana, she’s had enough of kidnappings and violence against women.
“We’ve all had enough because women are being kidnapped, women are being cut into pieces and with GBV we are all suffering, men and women,” she said. “We do not feel safe where we live, with our families, friends, or at the malls… we don’t feel safe.”
Her hope is that the police would be able to curb crime.
“We want them to hear our cries as women.”
You must be logged in to post a comment.