SU Council distances itself from Piet le Roux statements

14 September 2015

The Executive Committee of the Council of Stellenbosch University (SU) distanced itself from recent anti-transformational statements by a Council Member, Mr Piet le Roux. These statements were made with regard to universities in South Africa and the Minister of Higher Education and Training.

At a meeting held this morning (14 September), the Executive Committee of Council unanimously passed a motion on the matter affirming that: "Council is resolute in its support of the Institutional Intent and Strategy document (approved in April 2013) that was formulated under the late Prof Russel Botman's leadership as well as the Institutional Plan that was adopted by Council in December 2014"; and that the documents "demonstrate the commitment of Council and Management to the University's transformational journey".

The Executive Committee of Council, "whilst acknowledging Mr Le Roux's constitutional right to have his own opinion", states that "Council distances itself completely from his statements as these are contrary to the Council's official position."

The Executive Committee also stated that Council approves the University Management's handling of the transformation process and reconfirms its full support of and confidence in Management. It also advises Council to "investigate the implications and possible sanctions resulting from Mr Le Roux's pronouncements in the light of the Code of Conduct for members of Council". 

Statement by the Executive Committee of the Council of Stellenbosch University, September 14 2015

Blade Nzimande en #transformanie gaan nie wen nie. Ondersteun die nuwe Afrikaanse Alumni-vereniging @afrikaansealum http://t.co/5acvBD9NyL

— Piet le Roux (@pietleroux) September 6, 2015