The Sol Plaatje University. File picture: Danie van der Lith
THE SOL Plaatje University student representative council (SRC) has announced that it has suspended one of its members following serious allegations of sexual harassment or misconduct.
In a statement, the SRC commended the complainants for coming forward and urged the university community to allow the authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly.
“We acknowledge the courage of individuals who came forward to report incidents of sexual harassment and assure you we will fully co-operate with all investigative processes to ensure that justice is served. We urge all members of the university community to respect the confidentiality of the ongoing investigation while showing compassion and support to those involved.
“We reaffirm our commitment to addressing gender-based violence and creating a campus where all students feel safe and protected. Let us work together in creating a campus where all feel safe and respected. Let us work together to ensure Sol Plaatje University remains a space of dignity, respect and safety for everyone,” the statement read.
The SRC confirmed that it has relieved the accused member of all duties pending the outcome of the investigation. It noted that the decision was made in consultation with the university management to ensure due process and uphold the integrity of the SRC.
The South African Student Congress (Sasco) at Sol Plaatje University expressed its support for the SRC’s decision.
“We, as Sasco, take these allegations with seriousness and we are committed to ensuring a safe environment for all our Sasco members and all SPU students. Sasco understands that this news might be stressful to many students and wants to assure students that all appropriate measures are being taken to address the situation,” it stated.