The SAZF calls on universities to uphold the fundamental values of academic freedom and resist misguided Israeli boycotts.  

19 June 2024 

The University of South Africa (Unisa) Senate’s decision to support a boycott of Israeli tertiary institutions undermines the fundamental principles of academic freedom and the pursuit of knowledge, which require divergent viewpoints and debate. 

Last month, the Unisa senate, led by the Vice-Chancellor endorsed a boycott of Israeli institutions, in line with the Boycott, Divestment Sanctions movement. 

While this decision will not help in any way in bringing peace between Israel and the Palestinian territory, it will harm SA’s biggest university and its students.  

The South African Zionist Federation (SAZF) has written to the Vice-Chancellor requesting a meeting about the decision and pointing out that South African universities should uphold the Constitutional rights to freedom of expression and the freedom of association.  

The SAZF has not as of yet received a reply from Vice-Chancellor Professor Puleng LenkaBula. 

Unisa is signalling to the local and international academic community that it is more interested in partisan politics than creating an environment where critical thought flourishes.  

Unisa fails to respect its employees’ Constitutional right to freedom of association, allowing them to research or share ideas with whomever they choose.  

Moreover, it does not serve students to cut the institution off from Israel, a country that is a leader in water technology, IT and agriculture in arid conditions, medical technology and advancements that could benefit local research and South Africans.  

The letter highlights that the boycott comes with reputational and financial risks and can drive antisemitism.  

It is crucial to recognise that several EU countries and certain US states prohibit collaboration with entities that boycott Israel or support organisations like Hamas, recognised globally as a terrorist group. This move could therefore reduce funding. 

Such a boycott risks alienating prospective Jewish students, who may choose to pursue their education elsewhere, thereby diminishing the university's diversity.  

This boycott diverges from the values enshrined in South Africa’s Constitution and those championed by former student Nelson Mandela, who recognised the right of Israel to exist within secure borders. 

The integrity and future of Unisa depends on its commitment to academic freedom, inclusivity and adherence to Constitutional values. 

The SAZF calls on South African universities to uphold the rights of academic freedom, diversity of thought, and to respect the Constitutional right to freedom of association, while creating an environment where Jewish students do not feel singled out or threatened.  

Issued by Rolene Marks, SAZF spokesperson, 19 June 2024