Stellenbosch University suspends student who urinated on other student’s belongings

Stellenbosch University (SU) says the student who urinated on the study material of another student has been suspended from his residence.

In a video gone viral, a white student can be seen urinating on the books and a laptop of a black student.

‘’The Huis Marais residence management was made aware of the incident during the day on Sunday, whereafter they immediately reported it to the relevant university structures for urgent investigation. The residence management strongly condemned the incident and took steps to manage the repercussions in the residence. It is important to note that the alleged perpetrating student was removed and is no longer residing in Huis Marais. Transformation and inclusivity are key priorities for house committees at all SU residences,’’ said SU in a statement.

Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University, Prof. Wim de Villiers, has condemned the incident.

‘’Such destructive behaviour is totally unacceptable and undermines what SU stands for as well as the many continuous focused efforts made towards building inclusive student communities at Stellenbosch University. The University strives to ensure a strong sense of belonging among all our students and many conscious efforts are undertaken by its Division for Student Affairs and other departments with this in mind.’’

“We are appalled by this type of behaviour. Such conduct will not be tolerated at the University. We acted swiftly and decisively to uphold our commitment to a culture of inclusivity. What happened at Huis Marais is not acceptable. No student has the right to diminish another student's human dignity or rights in this way," he added.

The university's student affairs director Dr Choice Makhetha says the affected student is receiving counselling, adding that SU is probing the matter.

“The student affected is clearly still in shock after his very upsetting and painful ordeal. He is still trying to process what happened and was offered counselling. He will be supported as and when required to ensure his academic progress is not affected by the incident."

“The Huis Marais house committee is committed to transformation. Our quick and decisive response to the matter at hand, should demonstrate our commitment to all people of this country. They also called a house meeting to ensure that the whole house understands the situation and what needs to continue to change to prevent a repeat of any similar action," added Dr. Makhetha.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

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