Boycott of Food Vendors on Campus

Dear colleagues and students

It has been brought to our attention that student groups have organised a boycott of some food vendor outlets on campus. The boycott is in response to allegations of victimisation of some workers at the food vendor outlets. It is also alleged that the company has not recognised the employees' trade union.

The University of Cape Town recognises that all employers must abide by the requirements of the relevant laws in trading and fair labour practice. This includes freedom of association, the right to join trade unions and protection from victimisation.

The food vendors rent space from UCT but are otherwise independent of UCT and UCT has no rights to intervene in the relationship between the employer and their employees. We will, however, request an independent audit of the employment practices of and wages paid by all food vendors on campus.

Whilst we acknowledge the right to boycott as a legitimate form of protest, we emphasise that students and staff and others on campus also have the right to access the services of these vendors if they so choose, and protesters may not obstruct access to the outlets.

Sincerely

Kylie Hatton
Deputy Executive Director: Communication & Marketing Department

Read previous communications:

• From the UCT Executive
• Campus Announcements