Gender-Based Violence and Femicide in Institutions of Higher Learning

Higher education institutions (HEIs) of learning do not exist in a vacuum, nor are they immune to the larger social issues experienced in the contexts wherein they exist. University students’ experiences of sexual assault on university campuses have been documented by scholars around the world as a matter of critical concern. For example, studies have shown that university campuses are places conducive to rape, and places where rape often occurs. Data reveals that approximately 50% of assaults are committed by someone close to the victim. These environments consequently mirror the reality of society at large, including the culture of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) that is permeating society. After analyzing some HEI-related GBVF cases, this chapter looks at how HEIs can contribute to eliminating GBVF specifically within the HEI industry. In addition, this chapter looks at how perceptions of crime, expressions of outrage and media reporting is impacting the quality of life of women and girls. HEIs hold the potential to address societal problems. This chapter concludes by providing recommendations on how to tackle gender equality whilst at the same time empowering women and reducing GBVF.