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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.
Statement by Universities South Africa
2016-02-26
We, the vice-chancellors, have noted with grave concern the nature and form of disruptive protests and escalating violence at some of our institutions, and most recently at the North-West University, University of Cape Town, University of Pretoria and the University of Free State. It appears that these violent acts are being planned and committed by groups and individuals with a singular intent - to deliberately disrupt and destabilise our universities through intimidation and violence. The executives of the universities involved have engaged constructively with the affected parties on their continuous demands, and redirected already limited financial resources to ensure the safety and security of staff, students and visitors. Read the full statement