Addressing recent challenges at UCT

Dear colleagues and students

The past few weeks have been a challenging period for the University of Cape Town (UCT).

There have been contestations at UCT on matters relating to governance, executive relationships and transformation. We recognise that UCT is a microcosm of society reflective of the contextual challenges of a transforming university. Amidst these challenges, we wish to convey to our campus community what can perhaps be summed up in three words: assurance, commitment and gratitude.

We wish to assure our staff and students that we remain focused on the task at hand, which is to enable the university's core business of teaching and learning; and research as aligned with our Vision 2030 – unleashing human potential to create a fair and just society.

We also acknowledge and affirm the pending independent investigation process that is being put in place by Council. We commit to supporting this process.

We recognise the very important work that continues to be done by our staff and students to ensure that the regular business of the university continues. This is crucially important and we sincerely thank all concerned. This is further testimony to the continued hard work by colleagues and students, which has been illustrated by the various excellent performances by UCT on several recent international rankings.

As the executive, we remain committed to continue leading and working together as a collective in the best interest of the university.

Sincerely

Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng
Vice-Chancellor

Professor Sue Harrison
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC): Research and Internationalisation

Professor Harsha Kathard
Acting DVC: Teaching and Learning

Professor Elelwani Ramugondo
DVC: Transformation, Student Affairs and Social Responsiveness

Royston Pillay
Registrar

Dr Reno Morar
Chief Operating Officer

Vincent Motholo, CA (SA)
Chief Financial Officer

Read previous communications:

• From the UCT Executive
• Campus Announcements