In remembrance: Simamukele Khanyile

Dear colleagues and students,

The University of Cape Town regrets to confirm that a student, Simamukele Khanyile, tragically passed away at Forest Hill residence yesterday evening. She was a third-year student majoring in gender studies and anthropology.

Late on Thursday, 17 March 2016, around 22h45, she fell from the sixth floor of Forest Hill residence. Medical personnel immediately rushed to the scene and attempted to resuscitate her but she passed away at the scene.

We convey our deepest condolences to her family and friends. The university is offering support to the family and providing counselling to all who are affected by this incident.

The full circumstances that preceded or led to the incident and tragic death are not yet known but are being investigated. We do not wish to speculate on these matters or to assume facts that may not be accurate. It is important that the investigation concludes so that a full picture may emerge. The South African Police Services are investigating and UCT is working alongside them.

The untimely death of an individual is always hard to understand and to accept. There may be some who experience distress from this news or who are particularly affected as they might have been close to these students. We urge you to reach out to the counselling services that are available to students through the Student Wellness Service and to staff through Human Resources.

Yours sincerely

Gerda Kruger
Executive Director: Communication & Marketing Department

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