​Management has received various enquiries on SU's position regarding calls for a national shutdown on Friday (7 April). This was discussed at length at a meeting of the Rector’s Management Team yesterday (4 April). 

Please read the stance of SU on this matter below:

·         Management is of the opinion that the best course of action for the University is to remain focused on its unique contribution towards the solution for the problems of poverty, inequality, corruption and unemployment in our country, namely through education and research.

·         Therefore all SU activities will continue as scheduled on Friday 7 April.

·         Management acknowledges that the national developments have created heated national debate and that calls are made by various groupings, political parties and faith communities, amongst others, for citizens to take action.

·         Management respects the right of staff and students to express their opinions through various ways, including legal, peaceful protest action. Normal leave arrangements apply for staff members.

·         Management encourages staff and students to engage in open, meaningful and courageous discussions about the national developments where these are arranged on campus. Participation in events and discussions should be agreed with Deans and Heads of Department and aligned with work schedules.

·         The University is working with Universities South Africa (USAf) to formulate a higher education sectoral opinion.