University of Copenhagen

Dear Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng

I was devastated to hear this morning that vital parts of University of Cape Town historical premises have caught fire.

Please, allow me to express my compassion with you and your university.

I understand that the fire has devastated parts of your Jagger Library and some valuable collections have been lost. I am truly sorry for your loss both as a university colleague and as a IARU partner.

The library is in many ways the nerve of a university. The loss of which is not only a material one, but one which effects the whole identity of the university.

I hope, and trust, that you will quickly establish control over the fire without further damages to buildings and people.  As a partner university in the IARU alliance, the University of Copenhagen is at your disposal in all matters where we can be of help. 

I will watch the news from UCT closely through the next days, and hereby pass my sincerest best wishes to you and the evacuated students, staff and faculty.

Kind regards,

Henrik C. Wegener