CPUT stabbing incident reignites debate on toxic masculinity

November 13, 2023 105

The violent stabbing of a student from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) by her husband from a neighbouring university, has reignited the debate over the need for toxic masculinity to be addressed in society, including at institutions of higher learning.

Non-profit Organisation, Women and Men Against Child Abuse, says it is concerning that those who are meant to protect the vulnerable, are the same people that usually carry out brutal violence against them.

The remarks come amid a public outcry over the brazen attack on the 26-year-old woman, who was stabbed multiple times in broad daylight.

This just days before the annual international campaign for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls kicks off.

The perpetrator, 32-year-old Ntembeko Myalo, briefly appeared in court today and has been remanded in custody.

He is scheduled to return to court on Monday.

Anti-child and women abuse activist, Luke Lamprecht, says such incidents are devastating and more needs to be done to deal with toxic masculinity.

CPUT has appealed to social media users to stop sharing the video of the violent incident, as it might re-traumatise the victim and other GBV survivors.

University spokesperson, Lorrian Hensley, says the young woman is in a stable condition in hospital.

Following the incident, some students have raised concerns over their safety.

However, Hensley says they should not be worried as the university has their back.

The South African Union of Students (SAUS) says it is concerning that more than 10% of GBV cases in the country happen at institutions of higher learning.

The ANC Women’s League’s Young Women’s Desk says the fact that the individuals involved were reportedly married, further emphasises the urgent need to address marital abuse and intimate partner violence comprehensively.

“No relationship should be a breeding ground for violence, and it is crucial that we collectively work towards fostering healthy, respectful partnerships,” the Young Women’s desk says in a statement.

The desk’s spokesperson, Sarah Mokwebo, urges institutions of higher learning to prioritise the safety and well-being of their students.

The Minister of Higher Education has also weighed in on the matter, vowing to deal decisively with the scourge of GBV and femicide at tertiary institutions.

Through his spokesperson, Ishmael Mnisi, Minister Dr Blade Nzimande also urged all institutions to continue working with the national health agency, Higher Health, to implement programmes aimed at addressing GBV and students’ sexual challenges at the country’s 26 universities and 50 TVET colleges.