South Africa: Uni Bans Alcohol in Residences
Stellenbosch University in South Africa bans alcohol in residencies in an attempt to reduce alcohol problems and alcohol fuelled gender-based violence on campus.
The temporary ban came into effect on January 1, 2020. During the review period of the new ban, no alcohol will be allowed to be consumed in SU student accommodation or on its premises.
A brief to students about the ban highlighted two incidents which happened in the previous year, that led to mounting concerns over alcohol harm.
The first incidence was the death of a student after he was taken off life support due to choking in his sleep.
While the circumstances of his death were unclear, there had been speculation that he had consumed a lot of alcohol, and also rumours that there was some kind of alcohol drinking game or ritual or residence tradition involved.
The second incidence is alcohol-fuelled gender-based violence which is a massive and growing problem.
We have to now step up and take ownership of how we are going to combat the difficulties that make our living and learning communities unsafe and unwelcoming spaces for many of our students and newcomers,” stated the University Council, as per, news 24.
The university has also entered into talks with students mobilising against gender-based violence and a memorandum was drawn up by the Anti-GBV Movement SU.
According to the brief the University Council is open to a period of engaging conversations with students about the ways in which to combat these difficulties to make living and learning communities safe and welcoming spaces for all.
