This is not the first time the university has been under fire for alleged racism. In February, one of Sowetan’s sister publications reported on a residence head who used the k-word. The university explained that he used the word to explain how it is not an acceptable word to be used.
In 2014, two University of Pretoria students faced a disciplinary hearing after photos of them dressed up as domestic workers went viral. The two women had painted their faces brown and stuffed their skirts with pillows to make their buttocks look larger.
The South African Students Congress (Sasco) and EFF Student Command condemned the incident. “Anything short of expulsion and potentially criminal charges would be regarded or seen as an injustice. This racist criminal act deserves the highest punishment if we are to have confidence that the university truly respects and protects the right of students, particularly the black marginalised students. We demand that the university and all relevant authorities ensure that justice prevails,” read the statement.
EFF Student Command spokesperson Xola Mehlomakulu said they will continue to fight for decolonisation of higher education.
“We will no longer tiptoe around an institution that prides itself as the capital of racism in higher learning. For decades, Stellenbosch University has been victimising black students, all because of the colour of their skin,” said Mehlomakulu.
Stellenbosch University spokesperson Martin Viljoen said an investigation was under way. “The university strongly condemns the destructive, hurtful and racist incident that was captured on a cellphone…The alleged perpetrator was suspended from the university on Monday [Monday].
“A further swift but detailed investigation will determine the final outcomes. Expulsion and/or criminal charges are not excluded from the possible available options, based on the investigation’s findings,” he said.