​In the negotiations between the Unions and Stellenbosch University (SU) during the course of 2016 regarding insourcing and outsourcing, the parties agreed to a process of Viable Sourcing. Viable Sourcing is defined as a system and process whereby the University, in a transparent manner, taking into account input of various stakeholders, decides on the optimal vehicle for the provision of essential services to the University. To this end SU is committed to a process of Viable Sourcing when an essential services contract is due for renewal or a requirement for a service arises.

Stellenbosch University's Property Services Department (“Property Services") is commencing with the Viable Sourcing process for additional professional landscape and horticultural maintenance services for its Stellenbosch, Tygerberg, Bellville Park and Worcester campus. As part of the Viable Sourcing process, input is hereby requested from interest groups or any parties that may potentially be affected by the sourcing approach. People who would like to comment are requested to submit written submissions to Liezl Cilliers, Senior Buyer, via email at liezlc@sun.ac.za or to submit submissions to her at the Purchasing & Provision Services Building (Merriman Avenue), by 23 October 2017. People that also want to comment in person, must please indicate this and provide contact details. These submissions will form part of the evaluation of the viable sourcing.

In order to compare viable options a (RFP) Request for Proposal will be issued to Landscape Maintenance and Horticultural Companies. As all the services, expertise and knowledge needed are not available within SU and to comply with statutory regulations, Property Services require assistance.

Property Services require landscape maintenance services to assist with the provision of:

•                    Landscape and associated services for the complete, holistic management of the grounds and gardens on the Stellenbosch, Tygerberg, Bellville Park and Worcester campuses;
•                    Clearly defined standards of arboriculture and horticultural work with proposed timelines of achievement;
•                    The necessary skills and expertise to provide supervision, labour, materials, equipment, tools, transport, supplies and services to maintain in a superior condition all landscape areas, irrigation and other related work;
•                    Invasive species management in compliance with NEMBA (2004) along the conservation areas on the mountains, reserves and the rivers on and around  campus;
•                    Cleaning of hard landscapes and the removal of litter in all open areas;
•                    The management of a compost facility on site with all necessary equipment for the processing of green and food  waste;
•                    Appropriate measurement and reporting systems;
•                    Separate consulting and specialist services if needed during events.

The proposals will be evaluated on the following criteria:

•                    Proven human dignity protocols and practices regarding human resource management
•                    Sustainability of solution
•                    BBBEE rating
•                    Track record and relevant experience in multi-year similar sized landscape maintenance contracts (provide references of at least five current clients similar in scope as SU)
•                    Good standing within the green industry and applicable membership regulating authorities
•                    Environmental credibility
•                    Added value propositions