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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
Diversity targets in most residences reached, says UFS Rector
2008-02-01
The integration of student residences at the University of the Free State (UFS) is proceeding smoothly and the diversity targets in most of the formerly white residences, except one, have been reached.
This is according to the Rector and Vice-Chancellor of the UFS, Prof Frederick Fourie, who was speaking today during the official opening of the University.
However, he did acknowledge that the diversity target for white male students who should be living in formerly black male residences has been very difficult to attain.
“It is hoped that new initiatives will result in more success in this regard in 2009. Other elements of the approved residence diversity plan also create new opportunities for addressing this problem”, he said.
Prof Fourie also commended the Student Representative Council (SRC) and the student leadership of the UFS for assisting with the implementation of the new policy.
Last year the University Council set a target of achieving a minimum diversity level of 30% in all junior residences in 2008.
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
01 February 2008