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29 April 2024 | Story Valentino Ndaba | Photo Supplied
Protection Services Crime and Incident Investigation Proceedure
The UFS Crime and Incident Investigation Procedure is committed to maintaining campus safety.

In alignment to its strategic Vision 130 of fostering a safe and secure environment for all staff and students, the University of the Free State (UFS) introduced a robust Crime and Incident Investigation Procedure. This initiative underscores the institution's commitment to upholding its values of integrity, accountability, and excellence, while ensuring the well-being of its diverse community.

Jacobus van Jaarsveld, Deputy Director at Protection Services, highlighted the importance of this procedural framework, stating: “Our aim is to establish a culture of safety and accountability within the university community. By implementing this procedure, we are reaffirming our dedication to prompt and thorough investigations of all reported incidents.”

Comprehensive coverage and scope

The Procedure encompasses all UFS students, staff members, visitors, contractors, and service providers across multiple campuses and satellite sites. It addresses incidents occurring both on-campus and off-campus if they affect the university’s reputation or assets.

Ethical and professional investigations

All investigations are conducted with professionalism, impartiality, and adherence to legal and ethical standards. The principle of “innocent until proven guilty” is upheld, respecting the rights and freedoms of all individuals involved.

Students, staff members, and other stakeholders are obligated to familiarise themselves with the Procedure, promptly report incidents, cooperate with investigators, and comply with university policies and codes of conduct.

Inclusive and collaborative approach

The Procedure emphasises the importance of inclusivity, ensuring that investigative processes accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities. It also highlights the establishment of interdepartmental service level agreements to facilitate collaboration and information-sharing among relevant departments.

Continuous improvement and monitoring

The UFS will monitor reported incidents through regular updates and crime overviews. Additionally, ongoing evaluation and refinement of the Procedure will be based on crime statistics, security risk assessments, and best practices in investigative management.

In conclusion, the implementation of the Crime and Incident Investigation Procedure represents a significant step forward in the UFS’s ongoing efforts to create a safe, supportive, and conducive environment for learning, teaching, and research. Through proactive measures and steadfast adherence to principles of integrity and accountability, the university reaffirms its commitment to excellence in all aspects of university life.

Report crime

Bloemfontein Campus Protection Services: +27 51 401 2911 or +27 51 401 2634
South Campus Protection Services: +27 51 505 1217 
Qwaqwa Campus Protection Services: +27 58 718 5460 or +27 58 718 5175

Click here to download the Crime and Incident Investigation Procedure booklet and watch the video below.

News Archive

National interpreter project awarded to the UFS
2008-03-07

 
A national project on the training of court interpreters was recently officially launched on the Main Campus of the University of the Free State (UFS) in Bloemfontein. It is a joint project of the UFS, the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, and the Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA). The project includes the training of 100 court interpreters countrywide over the next two years. It was awarded to the Department Afroasiatic Studies, Sign Language and Language Practice at the UFS after all higher education institutions in the country had the opportunity to apply to undertake this project. The project is lead by Prof. Annelie Lotriet, Associate Professor in the Department of Afroasiatic Studies, Sign Language and Language Practice and an internationally renowned interpreting expert, who was also responsible for the training of interpreters for the former Truth and Reconciliation Commission. At the launch of the project were, from the left: Mr Zongezile Baloyi (Chief Executive Officer of SASSETA), Prof. Lotriet, and Prof. Sakkie Steyn (Registrar: General at the UFS).
Photo: Leonie Bolleurs

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