Durban University of Technology (DUT) is organizing its 12th annual silent protest, which will gather students, staff, and stakeholders from the higher education sector to raise awareness about gender-based violence (GBV).
The event will take place on Wednesday at the Fred Kruks Sports Centre on the Steve Biko campus in Durban from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The protest is organized by the DUT HIV and AIDS Centre.
DUT Silent Protest
This year's theme is 'Silence Speaks: Together Against Gender-Based Violence,' focusing on overcoming the silence surrounding gender-based violence and demonstrating available support for victims.
This annual initiative is part of DUT's efforts to raise awareness about GBV and promote a safer and more inclusive environment for students, staff, and the wider community.
Dr. Tobile Zulu, the HIV/AIDS coordinator at DUT, noted that the Silent Protest provides an opportunity to engage with students from higher education institutions in the Durban metro and uMusaMzini regarding the stigma and silence associated with GBV.
According to Zulu, the event serves as a platform to discuss the ongoing stigma and silence surrounding gender-based violence among university students from the Durban metro and uMusaMzini, as well as within the general public. Furthermore, the program will provide information on support services available on campus for GBV victims.
The DUT community is invited to participate in the Annual Silent Protest to unite in solidarity against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and reaffirm its commitment to creating a safer and more inclusive society for all.
Zulu stated that the event will provide a safe space where students and members of marginalized communities can share their experiences, challenges, and concerns. The march will bring together participants from various higher education institutions, offering an opportunity for dialogue about GBV and the need for collective action.
Zulu urged students and staff to attend the event and participate in the discussions. She emphasized that this is a chance to share difficulties, experiences, and concerns related to GBV, and that such engagement will help find solutions and support the University and society as a whole in addressing this global issue.
The Silent Protest has been held annually by DUT for the past 12 years and remains part of the university's efforts to raise awareness, support victims, and encourage conversations about GBV prevention.
Event details: This is the 12th Annual DUT Silent Protest, themed 'Silence Speaks: Together Against Gender-Based Violence.' It will take place on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, at the Fred Kruks Sports Centre, Steve Biko Campus, Durban.