Why SDAP Matters - Protecting Your Rights - Issue 3
12 Months 12 Articles
A look at SDAP’s role in safeguarding students interest.
In light of Human Right’s Day approaching, one has to wonder what rights you have as a student at the University but more specifically what rights do you have when it comes to the disciplinary hearing. This article will serve as a brief overview of some of the rights you have in terms of facing a disciplinary action against you at the University.
- You have the right to be provided with sufficient information regarding the charge/s against you.
- You have the right to be afforded reasonable time to prepare for the disciplinary hearing.
- You have the right not to incriminate yourself, this means that you do not have to say something that might implicate you.
- You have the right to choose whether you would like to enter into a plea agreement of guilty or not guilty.
- You have the right to call witnesses to provide evidence in your favour at the disciplinary hearing.
- You are allowed to cross-examine any person who gives evidence against your case.
- You are allowed to present your case to the Disciplinary Committee.
- You are allowed to address the Committee on any other relevant aspects.
- You are allowed to provide mitigating circumstances if you are found guilty of the charge.
- You are allowed to appeal against the decision of the Committee and you are allowed upon request to provide written reasons for any decisions made by the Committee.
In conclusion, these are some of the rights you are entitled to in terms of disciplinary action at the University. Should you decide to make use of SDAP’s services and book a consultation. Our student advisors will provide you with an explanation of the disciplinary hearing. Furthermore, during the consultation the student advisor will also provide a detailed explanation on the rights you have throughout the process and answer any questions that you might have regarding the process. Should you have any questions feel free to contact SDAP and a student advisor will contact you.