The University of Pretoria is buzzing with the return of students, and like many urban student hubs, the surrounding area can become a target for opportunistic theft. A student survey conducted for this article suggests that while many students feel safe during the day (54.5%), they feel less confident walking at night (63.6%). Many indicated that they will only do so in groups. A number of students also reported that they have recently changed their behaviour due to safety concerns.
An anonymous student reported an incident in which she was driving back to her residence (during the day) and was stopped at a red light at Fountains Circle when she experienced an attempted smash and grab in which her window was broken and her arm bruised. However, she managed to speed away before anything was taken. She reported that after sharing her experiences, other students came forward and said that they had experienced the same thing at that circle, but most had not been so lucky to escape with their phones. She shared, “I will no longer drive that route anymore as I am scared it happens again.” She also explained that she is “constantly searching and watching people when [she] stops at a robot now”. This experience illustrates how it is often the case that we are victims of crime, and this can usually cause severe stress, which changes our behaviour in the future.
The University of Pretoria has issued official safety guidelines to students through its Department of Security Services. In these guidelines, they state that we should avoid speaking to strangers, “especially when walking alone”, and that we should “avoid using cell phones while walking” and keep “them stored in our bag”. They promote walking in groups and sticking to “well-lit, busy streets, main roads, and official footpaths”. Students are also encouraged to reach out via the Security Services emergency number which can be found on the back of your student card. The guidelines say, “The Department of Security Services is fully committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment.”
One of the key safety measures implemented by UP is the Green Route. This system aims to “maintain a secure work and study environment for all”. The service provides safety to students and staff and allows them to be accompanied by a UP security officer to and from their residence, vehicle, or any nearby place.
Students who chose to share personal experiences described instances where their phones had been stolen and they felt the security did nothing. They have changed their behaviour because of crime and avoid walking at night, not going out with just a group of girls, or even avoiding going to late lectures if this means they have to walk to their car alone.
The emphasis from both UP and student experience is maintaining awareness and simple habits like walking in groups at night, avoiding making your valuables visible, and staying alert to significantly reduce any chance of risk.
Visual: Gabriella Le-Roux
