Univen Student Dies in Suspected Gender-Based Violence Incident

A 20-year-old University of Venda (Univen) student has died in what is believed to be a case of gender-based violence (GBV). A fellow 20-year-old male student, reportedly her boyfriend, is expected to appear in the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court in Limpopo on Monday in connection with the murder.

The incident occurred on Friday, 29 August 2025, at an accredited off-campus student residence. Preliminary reports suggest that the couple had an argument that escalated into violence. The suspect, a second-year Bachelor of Environmental Sciences student, allegedly stabbed the victim, a first-year Bachelor of Arts in Language Practice student, multiple times, leading to her death.

University Reacts with Shock and Condemnation

The University of Venda has expressed deep shock and sadness at the tragedy. Speaking on behalf of the institution, spokesperson Dr. Takalani Dzaga conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and strongly condemned the brutal act.

“It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we mourn the loss of one of our students in this senseless act of violence,” said Dr. Dzaga. “On behalf of the University, I extend our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. We share in their grief and pain. Violence of any kind has no place in our society and certainly not within our university community.”

The Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Bernard Nthambeleni, also condemned the killing, stating that the institution remains committed to fighting GBV through awareness campaigns and student support initiatives.

Support for Students and Family

Univen management has already reached out to the victim’s family, visiting them on Saturday to offer condolences and support. Dr. Dzaga confirmed that the university will continue to provide assistance where possible, while also relying on law enforcement agencies to pursue justice.

The university’s student counseling unit has been activated to provide trauma counseling to students who witnessed the incident or were affected by it. “We are hopeful that the support we provide will help those struggling to come to terms with this horrific event,” Dr. Dzaga added.

Strengthening Safety Measures

In response to the tragedy, Univen has committed to reviewing its campus safety protocols and off-campus residence arrangements. Measures being considered include:

• Strengthening campus security and access control systems
• Reviewing accreditation standards for off-campus student housing
• Expanding GBV and mental health awareness campaigns
• Providing long-term trauma counseling and support services to students and staff

Broader Context

The incident occurred as the country marked the end of Women’s Month, a period dedicated to celebrating women and raising awareness about gender inequality and violence. This has further amplified calls for urgent action against GBV in higher education spaces.

Dr. Dzaga stressed that while the university has been actively participating in GBV prevention campaigns, the tragedy underscores the need for even stronger measures: “This senseless killing is a stark reminder that the fight against gender-based violence is far from over. We will continue to intensify our efforts to create a safe environment for all our students.”

The suspect remains in custody and is due to make his first court appearance on Monday.