The results of the UCT organisational climate survey will soon be available and a wide consultation and discussion phase is about to begin.

The vice-chancellor and DVC Professor Cheryl de la Rey called for the survey last year as part of a wider transformation initiative. Close to 3 700 staff members were asked to help gauge how UCT is doing in its efforts to transform itself into a more representative and diverse community while simultaneously retaining its competitive edge.

The survey was completed in October and the Institutional Forum acted as reference group for the research process, conducted by members of the psychology department. The research findings were recently presented to the Senior Leadership Group and the Institutional Forum, and will be discussed at the Council meeting on Wednesday, April 7.

According to De la Rey, a wide consultation and discussion phase across campus will now begin. It is envisaged that this will include discussion sessions with all staff, conducted by the deans and executive directors. These will include a presentation of the results, debate and, hopefully, suggestions and comments on how to address some of the issues as well as accelerate transformation at UCT.

This phase will also include discussion sessions at Senate, with the heads of academic departments, the University Strategy Committee, the SRC, the Academics' Association, the PASS Forum, Nehawu and the Employees' Union.

Monday Paper will be tracking the progress around the consultation and discussion phase. A special e-mail address, transformation@uct.co.za, has been set up to receive comments and suggestions on this issue from any staff member.