Wednesday, 19 August 2009
UPDATE ON THE INVESTIGATION INTO THE EVENTS WHICH TRANSPIRED LAST WEEK
Last week I addressed a letter to the Wits Community regarding the events leading up to and during the Limmud Conference which took place on the 9th and 10th of August 2009. I indicated that I will be commissioning an investigation into the matter and that I would advise you of the terms of reference and timelines for this investigation.
After careful consideration of the complaints which I received, I have decided to take responsibility for finalising the terms of reference for the investigation. They are as follows:
To investigate the events leading up to and during the Limmud Conference which took place on the 9th and 10th of August 2009, and in particular to investigate:
(1) Claims that ‘racial profiling’ and/or inflammatory slurs took place;
(2) Assertions that the University had unreasonably attempted to prevent students from legitimate protest action;
(3) An allegation that the University did not respond seriously and timeously to the issue;
(4) If the University had exercised its proper responsibility with regard to ensuring proper control and use of the venues hired to an external organisation. If necessary, further recommendations should be made on this issue.
It is envisaged that the Investigation will entail the perusal of relevant documentation, eliciting the views of members of the Wits community on the particular matter, and conducting interviews with affected students, staff and members of the general public. It is further envisaged that the investigation will be conducted by the end of September 2009 and that the findings will be made available to members of the University community.
I intend to appoint an independent and senior member of the legal profession who is external to the University to conduct the investigation. I will advise you of the name of the person as soon as arrangements have been finalised.
Prof. Loyiso Nongxa
Vice-Chancellor and Principal
Wits University
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