Authors: Q. Mdaka and Q. Apollis
Equality Unit (EU)
Equality Unit Mediation programme.
Mediation is quickly growing as a preferred alternative approach to conflict resolution in the 21st Century, and in the Higher Education sector in South Africa. Mediation is defined as: "…the creation of an opportunity where an impartial third party, helps two or more people in dispute to attempt to reach a mutually beneficial agreement." - Francois Botha (Director of University of Cape Towns' Discrimination and Harassment Office).
The SU Policy on Unfair Discrimination and Harassment places mediation as the preferred means of resolution in matters pertaining to unfair discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment and victimisation. The University does recognise that certain matters may not be resolved through mediation. The Equality Unit (EU) makes use of staff members who were trained as workplace mediators by Francois Botha. In 2016, 100% of mediation sessions initiated by the EU were successful where both parties were able to reach a confidential and amicable solution.
The EU aims to substantially upscale our mediation programme in 2017 with a view to enhance personal development, conflict resolution and interpersonal relationship. We will also equip students by facilitating their involvement with and practise in the field of mediation by launching a new registered SU Peer Mediation short course this year. We encourage staff and students who are interested in mediation training to contact Qaqamba Mdaka (qmdaka@sun.ac.za, 021 808 3136) for more information on this exciting programme or any other services we offer within the EU portfolio for unfair discrimination.
The EU, at the Centre for Student Counselling and Development (CSCD) promotes collective action towards social justice and discourse regarding social asymmetries at SU, and implements a comprehensive HIV response. The Unit coordinates, educates and raises awareness around sexualities, gender, HIV/Aids and anti-discrimination. The Unit also formulates and oversees the implementation of SU's policies on Unfair Discrimination and Harassment, and HIV/Aids. We also serve as a centralised service for students and staff managing accounts of unfair discrimination and various forms of harassment at 39 Victoria Street.
Click here to go to the SU Policy on Unfair Discrimination and Harassment. Our webpage can be found at www.sun.ac.za/cscd and you can follow us on social media @MatieSUrpass.
