Stellenbosch University’s Wilgenhof residence could be closed by end of 2024
A three-person panel recommend that the controversial Wilgenhof residence be closed and used for alternative activities.
The Wilgenhof residence at Stellenbosch University. Picture: Facebook/WilgenhofResidence
CAPE TOWN - Stellenbosch University's controversial Wilgenhof residence could be closed by the end of 2024.
This followed a recommendation made by a three-person panel for Wilgenhof to be closed and used for alternative activities.
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The residence made news headlines in January after the discovery of disturbing items related to alleged institutionalised racism in two rooms of the residence.
The panel was then appointed to probe whether the university had been covering up unacceptable practices at Wilgenhof.
"Council will consider the recommendations at its meeting of 24 June 2024,” the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Learning and Teaching, Professor Deresh Ramjugernath, said.
"I want to echo the comments of our Rector and Vice-Chancellor Professor Wim de Villiers in that we will remain unwavering in our commitment to being a welcoming and inclusive institution."
The university said if the recommendation was accepted by its council, Wilgenhof would close at the end of 2024, and alternative uses of the space would be discussed for 2025.