In May this year, the University of Stellenbosch requested an external independent inquiry as part of rooting out racism and discrimination at the institution.
The commission followed an incident where a white first-year student, Theuns du Toit, was suspended after a video went viral on social media, showing him urinating on the study desk of black first year student, Babalo Ndwayana.
The incident unleashed an outcry and sparked outrage from students and university staff, calling for an end to racism and harassment at the university.
In June the commission commenced, which investigated past reported incidents, the state of cultural and racial diversity on campus, university rules, policies, and processes as well as other issues or concerns.
According to the report, the university has made impressive theoretical strides towards transformation, however due to various factors, black students and staff members still feel unwelcome and excluded.
Judge Khampepe’s conclusions were drawn from interviews with staff members and students.
Vice Chancellor professor Wim de Villiers says the university is studying the report and will fully engage with its content and findings.
The report is a tipping point, in a point in the commission and requesting the inquiry, SU made itself vulnerable and exposed itself to possible criticism. However, this had to be done with a view to a better future we regard this commission as an investment to the wellness of our entire university
De Villiers says that there is much in the report for the university to take heart from, specific fault lines have also been identified, adding that there is a lot of work to do across (Stellenbosch University), in the interest of all its students and staff.
“The commission has made recommendation and identified blind sights to help improve the university's culture of racial diversity, equity and inclusivity.”
He added that the academic integrity of SU, the quality of its qualifications and research are all non-negotiable and the institution will evaluate the findings and implement action plans to address the areas for improvement as identified in the commission’s recommendations.
The university says it will communicate further on the findings and subsequently the action plans and the way forward as soon as they have been finalised.
