Five days of national mourning and other updates

Dear students

This campus announcement aims to inform the University of Cape Town community about recent developments on campus.

1. UCT heeds call for five days of national mourning

During his address to the nation on 11 November, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the country will observe five days of national mourning from 25 to 29 November. This is in recognition of all those who have lost their lives to COVID-19, sexual and gender-based violence or femicide. In solidarity with the rest of the country, the UCT flag at Sarah Baartman Hall will fly at half-mast for the five days.

• Read the VC Desk: UCT heeds call for five days of national mourning.

2. Procrastination is not always laziness

As part of a campaign by the Student Wellness Service’s peer counsellors, the focus this week is on procrastination. The worst thing about procrastination is the guilt that follows. But procrastination is the outcome of another underlying feeling or anxiety. Identify the root of your procrastination and take steps to deal with it.

Follow the UCT Student Wellness Peer Counselling Service on Instagram to connect with a community that understands how you are feeling and can offer you professional and empathetic support. If you feel that you need to speak to someone, please book a session or call the SWS UCT Careline on 0800 24 25 26.

3. Update on COVID-19 cases in the UCT community

UCT has 113 reported cases of COVID-19 among non-health sciences staff members, with 100 recoveries, as at 24 November 2020. The number of students who have tested positive for the virus is 59, which includes 16 Faculty of Health Sciences students on clinical platforms. The university has lost nine staff members and one student to the virus.

• Visit the web page paying tribute to the late members of the UCT community.

4. Farewell to Dr Moonira Khan: ED DSA

Dr Moonira Khan, Executive Director: Department of Student Affairs (ED: DSA) is retiring on 31 December 2020 after 15 years of service to UCT. Under her leadership, DSA has achieved significant milestones. Her unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of UCT students has made Dr Khan’s input invaluable to the student experience. The university is grateful for her many years of exceptional service. Her determination and drive will be sincerely missed.

• Read the VC Desk: Farewell to Dr Moonira Khan: ED DSA.

Communication and Marketing Department

Read previous communications:

• From the UCT Executive
• Campus Announcements