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The Rector and Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Free State (UFS), Prof Francis Petersen, comments on recent articles in the media and posts on social media alleging that white students and their history are not welcome at the UFS.
“I would like to explicitly state that white students are welcome at the University of the Free State, the same as any other student.”
“The university has been firm in its commitment towards diversity and inclusivity and this applies to all our students – irrespective of race. To make statements that white students and their history are not part of the UFS, is irresponsible. It is important for all our students – including the student leadership – to demonstrate tolerance towards each other so that everyone feel part of the university community,” said Prof Petersen.
Antagonistic behaviour towards students or staff is not aligned to the vision and values of the university, and such behaviour will therefore not be tolerated at the University of the Free State.
Released by:
Lacea Loader (Director: Communication and Marketing)
Telephone: +27 51 401 2584 | +27 83 645 2454
Email: news@ufs.ac.za | loaderl@ufs.ac.za
Fax: +27 51 444 6393
Latest information about fire in laboratory
2007-08-22
A meeting was held at 09:00 today to co-ordinate all the aspects around the fire that broke out in a laboratory in the Chemistry Building. Representatives from the fire brigade were also present. The following arrangements were made:
1. The entire Chemistry Building will be inaccessible until 17:00 this afternoon. Various experts are investigating the safety of the building and determining possible causes of the fire. By 17:00, personnel, students and other persons concerned will receive an indication regarding which parts of the building will be accessible, and at what times.
2. The acting head of the department, Prof. Ben Bezuidenhout, will inform the Chemistry students and staff about class and access arrangements. Chemistry students are requested to be on the lookout for NEWS FLASH messages via the intranet, as it might be necessary to distribute information in this way.
3. The university immediately initiated the planning of measures to limit the disruption of academic activities to a minimum.
It is confirmed that the fire was limited to a very small section in the building, and that there are no further safety risks for staff and students.
Media Release
Issued by: Mangaliso Radebe
Assistant Director: Media Liaison
Tel: 051 401 2828
Cell: 078 460 3320
E-mail: radebemt.stg@ufs.ac.za
21 August 2007