Gender Affirming titles available to students

As of 16 July 2018 - students throughout the university community may elect to change their title to one which affirms their gender, for example - changing from Mr to Ms, or Mrs to Mr. This is only applicable to University correspondance and internal use. All legally binding documents use a title aligned to your legal gender marker as prescribed under Act 49. of 2003. The changes available include the gender neutral title Mx (pronounced 'mix'). This move affirms the transgender, non-binary and gender non conforming University community.

This decision affirms those who are transgender, non-binary or gender non-conforming within the University community, who wish to hold a title that affirms their identity. The University recognises that it is invalidating and distressing for a person who, for an example, was assigned female at birth but identifies as male to be constantly addressed by a non-affirming title in University correspondence and systems. Increasingly, people who are transgender or non-binary opt to use the gender- neutral title, ‘Mx’, which is legally recognised in many countries across the world.

If you would like to change your title, kindly consult your Faculty for a change of details form and specify your correct title under the 'prefix' field. Once this has been reflected on student self-service, you may visit the Kudu Card Centre to replace your access card with one that specifies your correct title. Please note that a fee is charged to re-print your access card.

Wits reaffirms its commitment to human rights and freedom, and opposes all public and private discrimination on the basis of gender identity and gender expression, and all attendant benefits, rights, and privileges. We celebrate the valued and unique contributions made by members of our transgender community, as well as those who continue to work towards keeping our University a safe, welcoming and affirming space for all members of the LGBTIAQ+ community.