Future of Wilgenhof on hold again - closure recommendation 'not rational' say alumni

Stellenbosch University's Wilgenhof saga is not over.

After the University Council's acceptance earlier this month of a recommendation from a panel that the controversial men's residence be closed, it has taken a decision that further discussion is necessary.

The initial decision had been based on a report of over 150 pages on the two secret rooms found at Wilgenhof, and the initiation practices that allegedly took place there.

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Amy MacIver gets comment from Jaco Rabie, spokesperson for the Wilgenhof Alumni Association, which said that the report was 'filled with unsubstantiated and often sweeping claims, as well as factual errors'.

Rabie says the Association has made its misgivings about the report and the process clear over the last couple of weeks.

"We impressed upon the Council that the recommendation to close the residence is extremely far-reaching, and that they should take further viewpoints before ratifying that decision."

"We're very heartened that they're taking the steps that they are now taking."

"The Council have called for further representations to be submitted by the end of July. The next scheduled sitting is in September, so they'll be receiving input and then no doubt will be considering next steps at the next Council mneting."

Jaco Rabie, Spokesperson - Wilgenhof Alumni Association

Rabie says the initial decision to close Wilgenhof 'doesn't make sense' even from a practical perspective, in view of the student accommodation crisis at Stellenbosch.

He also highlights his understanding that the residents' voice has not been sufficiently heard, up to now.

"We'll be providing further input. There is an established path of inclusivity and transformation that's already been walked by the residents for a long time, and really what we'll be saying to the University is that the residents should be allowed to continue on this route."

Jaco Rabie, Spokesperson - Wilgenhof Alumni Association