Update on activities, Thursday, 20 October 2016

Dear colleagues and students

This is an update on recent events at UCT.

Internet access for students
Students who use Telkom, MTN and Cell C services to go online can now access university resources (including course and library materials) without incurring data costs. UCT wishes to thank these service providers for zero-rating access to university websites and playing a role in helping students complete the academic year.

Chance of disruption to internet service unrelated to UCT
UCT's Information and Communication Technology Services (ICTS) are liaising closely with the Tertiary Education and Research Network of South Africa to ensure an uninterrupted internet service to the university. There is a chance of a disruption that is beyond the university's control, however, given faults in the South African National Research Network's system. Read the campus announcement.

Exam update

• We are in the process of communicating to students and faculty managers the details and exam timetable for the exam block starting on 7 November 2016.
• Details and the exam timetable for the deferred exams in 2017 will be released in the next few days.
• Please note that students can write exams in one of the exam blocks and, in addition, have the option of deferring individual exams.

Update from VC Dr Max Price
UCT has increased the presence and visibility of private security and SAPS from Thursday, 20 October, following increased aggression, vandalism and violence on campus. The Vice-Chancellor Dr Max Price regrets to report that no agreement was reached with the SRC Candidates regarding a full opening of campus and a return to classes. Read the VC Desk.

UCT Libraries
For the most current information on UCT Libraries, follow their updates on Twitter.

Status of injured security guards
Two security guards were injured on campus yesterday. One was attacked on Cissie Gool Plaza and was hospitalised. He remained in hospital overnight and was discharged this afternoon to recover further at home. The other had a rock dropped on his head from an upper story of the Steve Biko Students' Union Building. He was saved from serious injury by the head protection he was wearing. The South African Police Services are investigating charges of assault with the intention of doing grievous bodily harm. We appeal to anyone with information about these incidents to contact SAPS (Rondebosch) directly or to phone Campus Protection Services on 021 650 2222.

Supreme Court of Appeal on UCT interdict
Today the Supreme Court of Appeal released a 49-page judgement, confirming the interdict of 11 May 2016. The five individuals who originally appealed the ruling are interdicted from: erecting unauthorised structures on campus; damaging any of UCT's premises; participating in, or inciting others to participate in, any unlawful conduct or unlawful protest action on any of UCT's premises; and inciting violence.

• Read the judgement.
• Read the court documents and a chronology relating to the interdict here.
• Read the media release from the courts.

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