Nevhutalu quits in wake of gross misconduct ruling
EMBATTLED Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) vice-chancellor Prins Nevhutalu has resigned after a disciplinary hearing found him guilty of gross misconduct.
Chairperson of the council Nogolide Nojozi said: “A disciplinary hearing chaired by an external independent chairperson was conducted and Dr Nevhutalu was found guilty of gross misconduct.
“Dr Nevhutalu resigned before a sanction could be recommended by the external chairperson.”
The vice-chancellor was placed on special leave nearly a year ago pending the outcome of the process.
CPUT student leaders last night claimed victory, saying they were vindicated by the outcome.
Members of #FeesMustFall at CPUT had accused Nevhutalu of corruption, purging students who raised the allegations and who were involved in protest action, refusing to insource services, sexual harassment and refusing to write off student debt despite CPUT council’s request to do so.
According to reports, Nevhutalu had been paid almost R2 million to sit at home while on suspension.
A student leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said last night: “During university events that needed him to address the institution as its leader, he was never available but he was he available to fire and suspend people.
“How can you in a corporate world fire someone because they have turned whistle-blower against you?
“CPUT’s HR department now needs to source for a qualified and experienced vice-chancellor who will not be biased in any decision.
“Dr Chris Nhlapo is experienced and he knows his research. That is experience we need.”