Latest update (23 Sept 2016):

Video message from Stellenbosch University Rector and Vice-Chancellor Prof Wim de Villiers on student fees, protest on campuses and the importance of the academic project:  https://youtu.be/FbBe7JBot2w

Earlier post (22 Sept 2016):

The recent protests at various institutions of higher education across the country have received widespread media attention and Stellenbosch University (SU) was no exception, with disruptions at our Stellenbosch and Tygerberg campuses.

"We have found ourselves in the regrettable position where students of our institution resorted to extensive disruption, damage to property and assault on fellow students and members of staff. These actions are unacceptable and harming – not advancing – the noble cause of making quality higher education as accessible as possible," SU Rector and Vice-Chancellor Prof Wim de Villiers said in an email bulletin (click here) to staff and students Tuesday evening, 20 September 2016.

"The disruption of classes, tests and other University activities is unacceptable. It infringes on the rights of students to study. Destruction of property and physical assaults are downright illegal. The University is currently taking the necessary steps against those involved," he added.

In a bulletin to staff on 21 September, the Rector said, "We have taken firm steps to remedy the situation.

"A court order (click here) was obtained on 20 September and served on 30 respondents to vacate the Wilcocks Building. They left of their own accord the next afternoon. They are further interdicted from occupying any campus building, disrupting the normal activities of the University; obstructing entrances to buildings or streets; damaging property; and assaulting, intimidating, threatening, harassing, harming or detaining others.

And, "Due to serious misconduct, 11 students have been suspended pending the outcome of disciplinary processes. They are not allowed to enter SU property for the duration of the suspension. They may appeal their suspension, which will be considered by SU's Central Disciplinary Committee.

Discussions with students

"We remain committed to ongoing discussions with students about fees and any other matter. This is primarily being driven by our Student Affairs Division, including the Dean of Students, who will facilitate further engagement. A response (click here) to the demands presented to us when we met with the Stellenbosch Fees Must Fall grouping on 17 September was sent to them on 20 September. I am therefore not anticipating addressing this issue at a mass meeting or a further meeting with this grouping.

Assault

"We learnt with much concern of an assault on a staff member by students on 20 September. The employee, who is in her sixties, was assaulted after she escorted a student whom she had assisted with a bursary application to a blocked exit. The University's Crisis Service (cell no. 082-557-0880) is providing counselling, and the staff member has been to the police to lay a charge. Reports of assaults on students are also being investigated.

"Please report any incidents to our Emergency Numbers: Stellenbosch Campus, 021-808-2333; Tygerberg Campus, 021-938-9507."

Racist remark

In a statement, the University also said it had taken note of social media posts of a racist remark by a student. "The matter has been referred to the Equality Unit for immediate investigation and will be treated with the seriousness that the situation demands. Racist language is unacceptable not only in terms of the Student Disciplinary Code but also in terms of the Constitution of South Africa. "

Academic project

In a message to alumni on 22 September, the Rector said: "We believe that it is vital that the academic project continues unhindered. We have not lost sight of how important it is for the University to continue delivering well-qualified graduates, producing new knowledge and making a positive impact on society.

"The final examinations for the year are almost upon us, and with that in mind we are working together to ensure that our students complete their courses successfully."

Please follow the SU social media channels and check the Urgent Campus Updates page for the latest information and links to previous bulletins and relevant reports.