Unisa has widened the scope of a probe into allegations of racism, harassment, victimization and bullying on campus.
Vice-chancellor Mandla Makhanya who said Unisa had also enlisted the help of the SA Human Rights Commission (SAHRC).
“Whilst this intervention was originally intended to investigate and recommend interventions to solve problems in our College of Law, it became apparent during the initial phases of the investigation that the problem could be widespread.”
Management and and the council of the university have condemned racism, harassment, victimisation and bullying.

Makhanya said they were committed to putting into effect recommendations emanating from the SAHRC investigation.
“Council has further directed that a formal review and, where necessary; amendment of all appropriate policies, structures and procedures be initiated as a matter of urgency.”
This was to ensure that a safe environment for staff and students and setting up platforms to deal with grievances.
Makhanya said formal grievances had been received against a senior staff member in the department of academic planning by two of his subordinates in February.

“These grievances were attended to without delay and the aggrieved employees were given preliminary feedback on 12 April 2018.”
The feedback included the appointment of an independent external body to investigate the allegations as well as the provision of counselling for the aggrieved employed.
The staff member implicated had been placed on special leave pending the finalisation of the investigation.
Makhanya said the university had directed that this investigation be given top priority and be dealt with promptly.

Source: Rekord East