​Stellenbosch University (SU) condemns cruelty to animals in the strongest possible terms and will not hesitate to act against anyone making themselves guilty in this regard. This is the reaction of the SU Management in the light of the abuse of a chicken at a University residence event on Saturday 18 February 2017.

An investigation has already started into the events that took place during the annual "Hoenderdag" of the Helshoogte Residence.

Hoenderdag is a celebration of music and dance with food stalls. The name originates from the residence emblem/crest featuring a chicken – considered a revered and respected symbol by residents. Chickens are however not involved in the day.

According to a preliminary report by the University's investigator it can be confirmed that the individual identified as, seemingly, the principal perpetrator in the available footage, is not a resident of the Helshoogte Residence, a student at SU, or an alumnus. This should however not be seen as justification by the University, the organisers of the event or the Helshoogte house committee of the incident. It does serve though as confirmation that the incident was not part of the official programme and activities of the day, thus not initiated or planned by the organisers. Irrespective of its origin, such actions cannot be condoned or ignored and a comprehensive review of the event is underway.

The event was open to the public and security was in attendance at the entrances and exits. It is unclear at this stage how the individual managed bring the chicken onto the premises.  

On the day, a concerned student reported the incident to the residence's House Committee who immediately tried to locate the guilty party/ies, but were unable to find the person/s – presumed to have left the premises by that time. They also immediately took steps after the incident to stop any further abuse. The chicken is being taken care of.

Due to the seriousness of the incident, the House Committee reported the matter to not only the University authorities but also to the Animal Welfare Society Stellenbosch who is also investigating the incident

In a statement the Helshoogte House Committee has given the assurance that it is not the intention of the event to abuse animals and that as a rule animals do not form part of the activities. It acknowledged that the incident occurred on their premises, but emphasised that such behaviour is not condoned by any member of the residence. "We condemn this behaviour on all fronts, and it is not the type of behaviour we ever wish to promote at this residence. The alleged guilty party has been reported for animal abuse and we will co-operate with all authorities to ensure that the disciplinary measures are followed through."

The House Committee also confirmed that the chicken does not belong to the residence nor was it brought onto the premises with the knowledge or consent of the Helshoogte House Committee.

The investigation is ongoing, but all indications are that this was an isolated incident. The University has not received any other complaints about the day or the events that take place during the day.