NUST’s Gender-Neutral Toilets Stir Debate Among Students

Windhoek- The proposed idea on gender-neutral toilets at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) brought about debates among students and the community at large after the Student Union of Namibia (SUN) raised the idea for inclusive spaces at NUST to accommodate students from the LGBTQI+ community.

It is alleged that the proposal was brought about after a few female students complained about students from LGBTQI+ community using their toilets which made them feel uncomfortable. The institution is presently creating procedures and reconsidering to regulate the usage of these facilities.The NUST spokesperson, Cindy-Lee Van Wyk declared that the management is dedicated to make sure that every student feels heard, respected and safe.

Not everyone is for the idea as strong concerns have been expressed by the Namibia National Students Organization (NANSO). They further claim that the university did not sufficiently consult the larger student group. The president of NANSO, Dorthea Nangolo, stated in a recent interview with Dessert FM, that they are fully in  support of inclusivity but not at the expense of students’ safety as there must be a balance between progressive policy and realistic execution.

Responses from students rage from suspicion to support. “ I am not being against anyone, but my safety and comfort comes first. I believe the university must build seperate toilets for our LGBTQI+ peers to avoid such concerns among us,” Etuna Fillmon, a second year student said. Despite such concerns from some students, others believe that all students must be treated equally regardless of their backgrounds and identity.

The discussion has spread to students’ WhatsApp groups and lecturer halls. Students are further calling for institutional policies that clearly define inclusivity standards and provide training for staff and student leaders to foster respectful dialogue.

It is anticipated that the institution will finalize this proposal as well as its policy framework.  The gender-neutral toilets continue to represent both advancement and disputes, pointing to the difficulties educational institutions encounter in adjusting to societal change among a diverse student community.