Dear UP students,

The University of Pretoria (UP) is proud of its student leaders and the manner in which they have committed themselves to acting in the best interests of the institution and our students, in a constructive and collaborative manner.

We understand that recent events regarding the SRC election process and outcomes have raised concerns and tensions within the student body. In light of these concerns and tensions, which threatened to undermine our student leadership structures, the decision has been made to set aside the disputed results of the 2024 elective portfolio election and uphold the undisputed results of the ex officio portfolios elections on the SRC.

As a result, a Temporary Student Committee will be established for the year 2024. This decision has been made with the aim of allowing you, our students, to focus on your core priorities – your success in the upcoming examinations. Simultaneously, this committee will ensure that a competent structure is in place to support the student body at the beginning of the 2024 academic year, and especially to assist first-years on the Helpdesk and returning students from mid-February 2024.

The seven ex officio members of the 2024 Student Representative Council will continue to be part of the Temporary Student Committee. Additional members will be selected taking into consideration some of the elective positions. A Chairperson of the Temporary Student Committee will be elected by the members from among the members of the committee themselves. The full Temporary Student Committee will be announced on 30 November 2023.

We believe this decision will provide direction to the student body and, more pertinently, provide a constitutionally sound manner of continued service to UP students.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation, and for acting in the best interests of the institution. We wish you all success with your examinations, and look forward to continuing to work together going forward.

Sincerely,

Professor Themba Mosia

Interim Vice-Chancellor and Principal