We enter the last few weeks of the academic year of 2016 very much aware that many students, parents and staff members are anxious about the broader issues around higher education in South Africa. We acknowledge that there are concerns related to the completion of the academic programme, as well as fears of victimisation of students who have taken part in protest action.
 
It is critical that we continue to engage in conversations about our roles as citizens and as healthcare professionals in addressing the significant economic and social challenges in our country. At the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences we need to remain committed to our values of excellence, integrity, commitment, accountability, inclusivity and innovation and ensure that these values become part of our lived experience on campus and beyond.
 
Recently, a number of discussions have taken place at departmental level to discuss student and staff concerns. My management team and I have also met with representatives of all student leadership bodies on campus. In addition, the Transformation Office has facilitated a group discussion with Huis Ubuntu House students. We are currently exploring options for focussed projects to address a number of these concerns.  
 
Furthermore, we continue to monitor the security situation and are making a concerted effort to keep the number of private security personnel on campus to a minimum. For now, we unfortunately need this additional support to ensure that exam and test venues, as well as the perimeter of the campus, are protected. Kindly note that from this week all private security staff on campus will be required to wear a badge with a specific number prominently displayed for ease of identification and reporting in the event of any unacceptable behaviour on their part. 
 
I would like to reiterate that all instances of abuse, intimidation or victimisation can be reported to the Stellenbosch University Equality Unit by sending an e-mail to unfair@sun.ac.za. Alternatively, our own Equality Champions are available to assist.
 
At times such as this there will always be different opinions about what strategies should be employed. My team and I wish to assure you that the safety and security of our students, staff and physical assets are of central importance to us. We will strive to ensure that students complete their academic programme in 2016.
 
Thanks once again for your understanding and support.