Wits' commitment to social justice

23 April 2025 - Social Justice Cluster

Wits stands firmly against all forms of bullying, discrimination and gender-based harms, recognising that these injustices undermine the rights of individuals.

 Wits University is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive and equity-centred environment where all members of its diverse community can excel and reach their full potential. The University stands firmly against all forms of bullying, discrimination and gender-based harms, recognising that these injustices undermine the dignity, rights and well-being of individuals and the broader community.

Anti-Bullying and Anti-Discrimination

Bullying, whether physical, verbal, cyber-related or psychological, has no place in the University or in our society. Discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, religion, nationality, or any other identity marker should similarly be eradicated.

Zero Tolerance for Gender-Based Harms and Violence

Wits acknowledges the urgent need to combat gender-based harms and is committed to preventing and addressing all forms of sexual and gender-related harms through advocacy, policy enforcement, survivor-centred support services and accountability mechanisms.

Inclusivity and Accessibility

Wits ensures that students and staff with disabilities are not disadvantaged in their academic or social experiences. It promotes inclusivity through reasonable accommodation, support and advocacy, resources, training and awareness, and collaboration and partnerships, both within and beyond the University.

Our Commitment

We commit to:

• Reviewing and enforcing policies that protect against bullying, discrimination and gender-based harms,
• Providing accessible reporting mechanisms and ensure that cases are handled with sensitivity and fairness,
• Offering support, including psychosocial support, legal assistance and advocacy, for those affected, and
• Engaging in ongoing education and awareness campaigns to challenge harmful norms and to foster a culture of respect and equity.

Wits is a space for learning, growth and transformation. We urge every member of the Wits community to uphold the principles of accessibility and justice, to stand in solidarity against gender-based harms, and to contribute to a University environment that is inclusive and empowering for all #WitsForGood.

±Ø²©ÓéÀÖ,±È²©ÓéÀÖÍøÖ· the Social Justice Cluster

 The commitment is formally embodied through the Gender Equity Office (GEO) and the Transformation and Employment Equity Office (TEEO) who work tirelessly to foreground and facilitate inclusivity, awareness, sensitisation activities, events and workshops that challenge the presence of bullying, discrimination and gender-based harms. These offices provide avenues for support should any member of the University community experience sexual and gender-related harm, bullying and/or discrimination. In addition, the Disability Rights Unit (DRU) is dedicated to supporting students and staff with disabilities, promoting equal opportunities and eliminating barriers that could hinder their academic and professional success and overall experience. They ensure a conducive learning and working environment and develop and implement relevant disability rights policies.