University of Mpumalanga Becomes 14th Campus to Launch SAPS Safety Forum

The South African Police Service (SAPS), in partnership with the Department of Higher Education and Training, has launched a Campus Community Safety Forum at the University of Mpumalanga to strengthen safety and crime prevention on and around campus.

The forum brings together SAPS, university management, government officials, the Community Policing Forum and students to improve collaboration in tackling gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), theft, substance abuse and other crimes. It serves as a practical platform to identify security risks and implement measures that prioritise student safety.

The University of Mpumalanga becomes the 14th higher education institution to establish a Campus Community Safety Forum as part of a national initiative to create safer learning environments through shared responsibility.

Speaking at the launch, SAPS National Head of the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit, Major General Mmantsheke Lekhele, reaffirmed that sexual offences and GBVF remain priority crimes and urged students to report incidents without delay.

University Executive Director of Operations Richard Flame welcomed the initiative, saying it will help create a safe environment for learning and talent development. The event concluded with SAPS, university management, student leaders and stakeholders signing a pledge committing to work together to ensure the safety and security of students both on and off campus.

Ehlanzeni District Commissioner Major General Dorah Xaba also encouraged students to actively report crime and work with police and community structures, emphasising that safer campuses depend on safer surrounding communities.