Council statement on recent xenophobic incidents

Dear colleagues and students

The University of Cape Town (UCT) Council has noted with concern recent reports of xenophobic incidents and tensions in parts of South Africa. Such incidents are deeply troubling and stand in opposition to the values upheld by the university, including human dignity, inclusion, respect and social justice that underpin our constitutional democracy and our UCT community.

It is important to note upfront that UCT has not recorded any xenophobia-related incidents on campus; and is not aware of any UCT students or staff having been affected by xenophobic incidents elsewhere.

Council calls on fellow South Africans to uphold the values of ubuntu, equality and the rule of law, and to reject acts of xenophobia and violence. We encourage constructive dialogue, mutual respect and social solidarity, recognising that our constitutional democracy is founded on the protection of the rights and dignity of all who live in South Africa. There is no denying that as a country, we face social and economic challenges. However, we should respond to these in ways that promote understanding and social cohesion, rather than division.

UCT is a global university that brings together students and staff from South Africa, the African continent and the wider world. The university has a range of measures in place to ensure that all students and staff are compliant with applicable legislative requirements.

The university continues to make a range of services available to students and staff who may feel affected by recent events or who may require support. These include:

• Campus Protection Services (CPS), which remains available to address safety and security concerns.
• The International Academic Programmes Office (IAPO), which provides dedicated support and guidance to international students.
• The Office for Inclusivity and Change (OIC), which offers advice, support and mechanisms for addressing incidents of discrimination or prejudice.
• Student Wellness Service (SWS), which provides counselling and wellbeing support for students experiencing anxiety, distress or other psychosocial impacts.

Council encourages any member of the university community who may experience or witness conduct that undermines the dignity or safety of others to make use of the appropriate reporting and support channels.

UCT remains committed to fostering a campus environment in which all members of our community are welcomed, respected and able to participate fully in university life – irrespective of their nationality, citizenship, ethnicity, place of origin or religion.

Sincerely

Norman Arendse (SC)
Chair of UCT Council

Read previous communications:

• From the UCT Executive
• Campus Announcements