UWC stands in solidarity against gender-based violence following alleged rape

A University of the Western Cape (UWC) student has accused a man of rape at a house near an off-campus residence — the latest in a string of sexual violence cases involving students in the province, and one that unfolds as national campaigns intensify against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

The incident, reported to police this week, comes just days before nationwide demonstrations planned for Friday, where institutions across the country  including UWC will join the Women For Change movement calling for GBV to be declared a National Disaster.

The accused, who is not a UWC student, made his first appearance on Wednesday at the Bellville Magistrate’s Court. Groups of UWC students gathered outside the court in solidarity with the survivor, chanting and holding placards as they demanded justice and accountability. Their presence echoed scenes earlier this month, when CPUT students protested outside the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court after a fellow student accused of rape was granted R5 000 bail, a ruling that sparked outrage and renewed calls for action.

In a statement to the Cape Argus, UWC spokesperson Gasant Abarder confirmed the latest case. “Our Department of Risk & Compliance has confirmed that a case of rape was reported at a house close to an off campus student residence, he said.

A case was opened with SAPS. “The survivor is a student of the University of the Western Cape (UWC).," he explained. Abarder added that the accused appeared in court on Wednesday, adding that he was not a UWC student. “There have been no protests on campus but students have rallied behind the complainant to show their support outside court.”

“The University is monitoring the criminal case very closely to ensure that the rights of our student are protected. Our thoughts are with our student and we are in the process of offering vital support that includes counselling and other essential services.”

National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila confirmed the case was opened at Belhar SAPS. The accused is due back in the Bellville Magistrate's Court next Wednesday for his formal bail application.

The latest case has intensified the sense of urgency on campuses across the province. Last month, the 24-year-old CPUT student accused of raping a fellow student at the Catsville residence in Observatory was released on bail despite strong opposition from the state and a petition signed by nearly 1 200 students. That decision left students furious, with many accusing the justice system of failing survivors and undermining the fight against GBV in tertiary institutions.

Against this backdrop, UWC announced it will stand in full solidarity with Friday’s nationwide shutdown against GBVF, urging students and staff to wear black, join a 15-minute standstill at noon, and use the hashtag #WomenShutdown to amplify awareness. The university will also turn all official digital profiles purple for the day.

UWC said it “remains steadfast” in its commitment to supporting vulnerable communities and “standing on the right side of history.”

The case continues.

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Cape Argus