Illustration by Desmond Asak (Renurm.)
This report presents the research carried out in four South African universities: the Independent Institute of Education (IIEMSA Campus); the University of the Witwatersrand Main Campus; North-West University’s Mahikeng and Vanderbijlpark Campuses; University of KwaZulu Natal’s Westville and Howard Campuses. The research combined both qualitative and quantitative methodologies to provide a holistic understanding of South African university students’ understanding of technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV), their experiences of TFGBV on social media as well as online dating apps, the types of TFGBV as well as the emotional effects of TFGBV occurrences. Drawing on survey responses and focus group discussions, the study offers valuable insights into how South African students navigate digital relationships and the vulnerabilities that emerge in online environments.
Key quantitative and qualitative findings reveal widespread unfamiliarity among participants with the term TFGBV, despite many students having directly experienced or witnessed forms of technology-based abuse. Also noted is the general ignorance of the harm TFGBV causes, resulting in under-reportage. Additionally, the study highlights the intersectional vulnerabilities of groups such as LGBTQI+, racial fetishism and single mothers.
This work forms part of the third edition of the Feminist Internet Research Network (FIRN) project, supported by the APC Women’s Rights Programme and the International Development Research Centre (IDRC).