UCT fraud awareness campaign

Dear colleagues and students

International Fraud Awareness Week, which this year falls within the period 17–23 November, was established by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners in 2000 as a dedicated time to raise awareness about fraud. The week-long campaign encourages organisations and individuals to proactively take steps to minimise the impact of fraud by promoting anti-fraud awareness and education.

The University of Cape Town (UCT) aims to maintain the highest standards of integrity in all its activities and is committed to a systematic and effective approach to prevent, detect and combat fraud, corruption and related activities. Where fraud has not been detected through internal controls, the university has an external whistleblowing hotline managed by an independent service provider to offer a platform for confidential and anonymous reporting of fraud and corruption related activities. Once fraud has been detected, it is investigated and if proved to be true, the necessary consequence management protocols are applied, and the institution will recover any loss from the staff member’s benefits.

UCT is committed to conducting its activities fairly, honestly and openly, in accordance with relevant legislation, and to the highest standards of integrity. In support of this commitment, a Fraud and Corruption Prevention Policy and Response Plan was developed and communicated to all key stakeholders in 2022. The policy describes available channels by which stakeholders should fulfil their obligation to report suspicions or knowledge of unethical, unlawful, dishonest or improper activities within the university. This policy further sets out the roles and responsibilities of management and other key stakeholders.

In addition to the policy on fraud, we have a quick guide to fraud prevention that can assist staff understanding of the process around fraud. UCT has a dedicated whistleblowing website, and the hotline number is 0800 650 000. The hotline is managed by an independent service provider, Whistle Blowers (Pty) Ltd, an important partner in our fraud awareness campaign.

The university has also recently become aware of fraudsters who are targeting students by purporting to provide student financial assistance or support and demanding payment in return. It is also common for students and parents to be offered non-existent private accommodation by fraudsters claiming to provide off campus accommodation. We want to encourage students, staff and parents to always be vigilant and ensure that they do not fall prey to these fraudulent attempts and, if unsure, to refer to the relevant university departments or officials.

Students requiring financial assistance can access the undergraduate or postgraduate financial aid office; and those requiring assistance with student accommodation can contact the Department of Student Affairs.

Sincerely

Professor Mosa Moshabela
Vice-Chancellor

Read previous communications:

• From the UCT Executive
• Campus Announcements