By: Maasago M. Sepadi, PhD, Tshwane University of Technology
Martha Chadyiwa, Associate Professor, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Despite growing attention to student safety, many South African university students still feel unsafe on campus due to rising crime, gender-based violence, and dangerous infrastructure. A recent review of safety conditions at 10 of South Africa’s 26 public universities reveals a disturbing trend: not only are violent incidents increasing, but institutional responses remain inadequate.
Widespread Safety Failures
The study—drawing on public records, police reports, media coverage, and university statements between 2015 and 2024—found that threats to student safety are not isolated. Fatal violence, including student murders and gender-based violence, has become alarmingly common, especially in provinces like Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.
From January 2023 to September 2024, at least 17 students were reportedly killed. High-profile incidents, such as the attempted assassination of University of Fort Hare Vice-Chancellor Professor Sakhela Buhlungu—which resulted in the death of his bodyguard—have further highlighted the seriousness of the crisis.
Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a critical issue. Up to 25% of female university students in South Africa report having experienced sexual violence during their studies. In 2017 alone, 47 cases of rape and sexual assault were recorded on campuses, with the University of Cape Town reporting the highest number.
Unfortunately, GBV is often underreported due to stigma and a lack of institutional support. Many universities lack clear procedures for handling such cases or fail to provide adequate survivor support services, despite national efforts to address the issue.
Unsafe Living Conditions and Infrastructure
The review also found that poor student housing significantly contributes to the problem. Overcrowded, under-maintained, and structurally unsafe residences are widespread. For example, a 2022 occupational health assessment at the University of Johannesburg flagged 11 areas on campus as high-risk due to hazards like chemical exposure, roof leaks, and poor ventilation.
Security is also a concern. Some residences lack controlled entry points, making them vulnerable to intruders. Several incidents of assault and even murder have occurred inside student housing.
Living in such environments affects students’ mental health, academic performance, and retention. Research links poor housing conditions with increased anxiety, illness, and dropout rates.
Weak Institutional Responses
Most universities are ill-equipped to respond to safety incidents effectively. In many cases, institutional leaders delay communication or fail to act after serious events. While some universities have introduced measures like SMS alerts, safety audits, or GBV offices, these efforts often lack scale, coordination, and consistent enforcement.
There is currently no universal safety standard across institutions, and oversight is inconsistent. This fragmented approach has allowed dangerous conditions to persist.
Urgent Need for Systemic Change
Campus safety is not just a security issue—it is a public health, academic, and social justice issue. Unsafe environments undermine students’ ability to learn and thrive.
The study identifies five key areas for urgent intervention:
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Annual safety audits conducted by independent bodies, with results publicly released.
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Real-time campus alert systems linked with law enforcement.
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Survivor support units offering professional psychological and legal services.
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Safety-linked funding that ties government support to campus safety performance.
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Interdisciplinary safety committees, including criminologists, public health experts, and student representatives.
The researchers argue that the Department of Higher Education and Training must require universities to carry out annual, verified safety audits. These should cover infrastructure, student housing, emergency preparedness, and compliance with health and safety standards.
Furthermore, students must have a say in shaping and overseeing safety policies. Peer-led initiatives and student representation in policy-making can help build trust and drive meaningful change.
Conclusion
South Africa’s high national crime rate has clearly spilled over into higher education institutions, endangering students and staff. Without coordinated, systemic reforms, universities will continue to fall short of their responsibility to provide safe learning environments. A safer campus is not just a goal—it’s a prerequisite for student success.
Source: The Conversation
DOI: https://doi.org/10.64628/AAJ.fkutqejut
