West Coast College officially launched its 100-Day Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) Challenge Campaign on Friday, 13 June, with a powerful Solidarity Day event held at Christian Private School in Malmesbury.

The event brought together staff from all campuses, dressed in black as a sign of unity and shared commitment to ending GBVF in their communities. The day began with a solidarity walk through the streets of Malmesbury, during which staff members carried messages of support and non-violence, publicly demonstrating the College’s stand against GBVF.

The programme included moving addresses and messages of encouragement from a wide range of partners and stakeholders, including:

  • West Coast College Council

  • Student Representative Council (SRC)

  • Department of Correctional Services

  • Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness

  • National Prosecuting Authority (NPA)

  • Swartland Municipality

  • Higher Health

  • South African Police Service (SAPS)

A highlight of the day was a keynote address by Delicious de Vos from the Disability Unit of CPUT, who urged attendees to take deliberate, ongoing action within their spheres of influence to help end the scourge of GBVF.

In his address, West Coast College Principal, Mr Lungisa Mbulawa, reflected on the deeper meaning of the day: “This day is more than symbolic; it is a call to action. It reminds us of our shared responsibility to reflect, take action, and remain steadfast in the ongoing fight against GBVF. As an institution of learning and transformation, we recognise our role in shaping not only minds but also the values and behaviours that can lead to lasting societal change.”

The day concluded with a meaningful pledge ceremony, where all staff placed their painted handprints on a wall banner – a lasting visual representation of their individual and collective commitment to ending GBVF.

The 100-Day Challenge continues with various awareness, education and advocacy activities across West Coast College campuses – building momentum towards a safer, more just society for all.