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26 January 2022
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Story Rulanzen Martin
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Photo University of the Western Cape
The late Prof Jaap Durand.
The management of the University of the Free State (UFS) is saddened to learn of the passing of Prof Jaap Durand, revered theological academic and author. Prof Durand obtained his master’s degree from the UFS and received an honorary doctorate in Philosophy from the UFS in 2004.
Prof Durand has had a colourful career as academic, writer, and struggle activist: from Professor of Systematic Theology and Dean of the Faculty of Theology at the University of the Western Cape to Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the same university. He also served as the ombudsman of Stellenbosch University from 2002 to 2003.
During his life, Prof Durand was a unifier and a critical voice, speaking out against injustice. He has also authored several books, including Dit is amper dag; Evolusie, wetenskap en geloof, and Protesstem.
The UFS joins the higher education community in mourning and is deeply saddened by the loss of such a great theologian and academic. We wish to convey our deepest condolences to Prof Durand’s family, friends, and loved ones during this time.
Free State High Court sets aside the claim of former students Muller and Blom against the UFS and its leaders
2016-02-03
Former students of the University of the Free State (UFS) Cobus Muller and Charl Blom lost both claims made against the institution and a punitive cost order was made against them.
This comes after a letter of demand was issued to the UFS on 5 March 2015 in which Muller and Blom claimed R5 150 000 each in compensation from the university. The first claim for contractual damages was withdrawn without explanation in December 2015 and the full wasted costs were tendered. Subsequently a claim for defamation of character was also set aside by Free State High Court. The Court further ordered the two former students to pay punitive damages.
The UFS leadership is satisfied that justice was served and regards the decision of the High Court as final.