Rector faces no-confidence vote over language furore

News24 17 March 2023

A motion of no confidence is expected to be tabled against Stellenbosch University Rector and Vice-Chancellor Professor Wim de Villiers after the SA Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) released its findings about complaints that students at the university were being prevented from communicating in Afrikaans, writes Marvin Charles for News24.

On Wednesday 15 March, the SAHRC found the university violated the rights of Afrikaans-speaking students when it was said they could only speak English in certain residences during their welcoming period. The release of the report comes after political parties, the Democratic Alliance and Freedom Front Plus, laid a complaint with the SAHRC in March 2021.

DA constituency head for Stellenbosch, Dr Leon Schreiber, who is a member of the Stellenbosch University council, announced he would, at the next council meeting, table an urgent motion for the removal of De Villiers. “This will be done in terms of paragraph 42 (3) of the SU statute over the serious violations of the law as confirmed by the SAHRC, as well as the serious misconduct exhibited through his failure to address or even acknowledge these violations,” he said.
Full report on the News24 site

Receive UWN's free weekly e-newsletters

A new global university ranking with an ethical mission

Aftab Dean

A new university ranking system aims to serve as a catalyst for positive transformation in higher education, ensuring that universities create an environment grounded in integrity and sustainability that inspires and supports students and staff in the development of novel solutions to global challenges.

Promoted by Globethics.net.

SDG progress report launches university into new territory

University of Pretoria staff

In the publication of its first progress report on its contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals, the University of Pretoria is navigating new territory at the same time as it is acknowledging its clear stewardship role in protecting the environment and biodiversity.

Promoted by the University of Pretoria.

Researchers in the UAE tackle water scarcity at its core

UAE University staff

Water scarcity has long been an issue in countries such as the United Arab Emirates. But the country’s National Water and Energy Center, based at the United Arab Emirates University, is providing solutions for the efficient exploration, development, use, storage and sustainability of the precious resource.

Promoted by United Arab Emirates University.