Question NW3426 to the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
20 December 2023 - NW3426
Makamba-Botya, Ms N to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
Noting the various reported incidences of racial tension arising at the University of Pretoria and the alleged unfair dismissal from Student Representative Council elections of certain candidates (details furnished), (a) what are the details of the intervention measures that his department has made in the institution, noting the historical context of the institution itself with regard to racial discrimination and (b) how does the department ensure that students and workers have an outlet outside of the investigation processes of institutions for reporting issues pertaining to racial prejudice?
Reply:
a) The Department approached the university for a response which was then provided on 14 December 2023. In the report the university confirms that it developed a transformation strategy in 2022 as required, and the strategy creates safe spaces for engagement and discussion on institutional culture, and subsequently established UP Institutional Transformation Committee and UP Transformation Office, all which are tasked with developing and implementing various transformation initiatives.
b) All incidences on racial prejudice and other forms of discrimination which are reported to the Department are immediately investigated by senior officials, sometimes with the assistance of Higher Health and South African Police Services.