No more maiden bursaries. That’s the verdict from the Commission for Gender Equality after its investigation into the awarding of 16 bursaries by the uThukela district municipality on condition that the young women recipients remain virgins. “Any funding by an organ of state based on a woman’s sexuality perpetuates patriarchy and inequality in South Africa,” the commission found. The council has until 18 August to report back on how it has implemented the ban on “maiden” bursaries. But it may not be quite as simple — the council indicated that it would take the report on review to court. By MARIANNE MERTEN.

Controversy erupted in late January 2016 when it emerged the uThukela district council in KwaZulu-Natal awarded bursaries to 16 young women, who would have to prove they remained virgins during their studies. The maiden bursary was one of four types of academic financial support the council offered. None of the other categories included gender specific requirements like ukuhlolwa (virginity inspection), but stated the bursary would be withdrawn if on failing one or more subjects or dropping out.

Amid widespread media coverage, lawyers, gender activists, civil society and political parties such as the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) expressed sentiments…

Source: Daily Maverick.