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01 October 2019 | Story Prof Francis Petersen | Photo Pixabay
Mental Health


During October, the national focus is on mental health. Mental Health Awareness Month also coincides with a time when our students prepare for the end of the year exams, making it a particularly valuable time for us to think about how we can continuously assist them during their time at university. The value of peer support and genuine care can never be overstressed; that is why I want to encourage our students to reach out to their support networks such as our Department of Student Counselling and Development, as we move towards the end of the year.

Mental health is an equally important matter for our staff. During this month, I want to encourage our staff to also take cognisance of their own well-being. There is a lot of wisdom in the old adage: Healthy body, healthy mind. Many of the initiatives of our Division of Organisational Development and Employee Wellness are focused on the value of physical activity and the negative impact that inactivity can have on one’s productivity and mental health. They also present regular lunch-hour sessions for our staff, where experts share information and practical tips for mental wellness. I want to encourage our staff to attend these sessions and to make use of the services the university has to offer in this regard. It is important to note that suffering from mental and anxiety disorders is not weaknesses and it is not always indicative of a deeper psychological issue; it is an illness and hence can be treated.

On 20 September 2019, a 21-member team was sent off on their run of 1 075 km to Stellenbosch to raise awareness for mental health. The run was organised by the Division of Organisational Development and Employee Wellness and the Faculty of Health Sciences. The team ran in relay format throughout the night and handed the baton of hope to Stellenbosch University on 25 September 2019. I admire and thank them not only for their commitment and stamina, but also for addressing this crucial matter in the public domain and for raising awareness in the many towns and communities along the way.

This is an  excerpt from a message by Prof Francis Petersen.

Mental Health Awareness Campaign

News Archive

KPMG hotline to combat corruption and fraud at UFS
2016-01-27

Through an initiative of KPMG, the Kovsie community can now combat corruption and fraud collectively. A hotline has been established that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

What to report

The Ethics Line is underpinned by the principles of honesty, integrity, respect, fairness, and courtesy. The following infractions can be reported:

  • Corruption
  • Dishonesty
  • Financial or other forms of fraud
  • Damage to environment
  • Discrimination
  • Health and safety violations
  • Unethical behaviour or misconduct
  • Class/exam irregularities
  • Theft
  • Sexual harassment
  • Other criminal offences

What not to report

However, the following should not be reported:

  • Employment grievances
  • Employment complaints
  • Petty arguments amongst staff
  • Personality clashes

Ethics Line Number

The KPMG Ethics Line number is 0800 00 67 04.

How the Ethics Line works

  1. Step 1: Call 0800 00 67 04 from any Telkom landline
  2. Step 2: Make your confidential and anonymous disclosure
  3. Step 3: You will be given a reference number. Keep this confidential, as you will need this if you wish to follow up on your call
  4. KPMG compiles the information, and reports to the UFS

The calls are answered, and the information recorded, by persons not employed by the UFS to ensure confidentiality. Even if you decide to supply your name, the information and your identity will remain confidential.

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