The Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University (SU) meets from time to time with persons from the diplomatic corps. Such meetings are purely academic in nature with a focus on exploring possible areas of grassroots academic and research collaboration.  With reference to the meeting with the Russian Consul General this past Friday, the Rector and Vice-Chancellor​ clearly framed the meeting within the understanding of the current geo-political environment that makes collaboration impossible. SU stands firmly against Russia's invasion of Ukraine. It reiterates its unconditional commitment to human rights as well as its strong condemnation of any violation of such rights, including acts of invasion and warfare.SU supports academic freedom and is an internationally recognised academic institution in the quest to generate knowledge in service of society. ​