IN CONVERSATION WITH AMANDA VAN WYK

The South African Police Service, in collaboration with the Department of Higher Education and Training, continues to strengthen safety and security at institutions of higher learning through the establishment of Campus Community Safety Forums across the country. These forums serve as collaborative platforms that bring together students, college management, law enforcement agencies, government departments, and other stakeholders to address safety concerns and develop proactive crime prevention strategies within campus communities.
As part of this ongoing initiative, SAPS will launch a Campus Community Safety Forum at the West Coast TVET College on 23–24 July 2026. The CCSF aims to promote a safer learning environment by encouraging partnerships, enhancing communication between stakeholders, and fostering a collective approach to combating crime and addressing social challenges that may affect students and staff.
The launch programme will include the signing of a pledge by stakeholders, demonstrating their commitment to creating and maintaining a safe and secure campus environment. A career exhibition will also form part of the event, providing students with information on career opportunities and showcasing the role of various institutions in supporting youth development and community safety.
The establishment of the forum aligns with SAPS’ broader mandate of building safer communities through prevention-focused interventions and stakeholder collaboration, while supporting the DHET’s objective of ensuring that institutions of higher learning remain conducive environments for teaching, learning, and personal development.