UCT dumps titles to foster ‘inclusive language’ on campus
The decision is part of transformation
University of Cape Town (UCT) students can now choose to be Miss‚ Ms‚ Mrs‚ Mr‚ Mx or no title at all.
Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng, the vice-chancellor, announced yesterday that current and prospective students can now choose their titles. The university said the decision was part of transformation and “building a culture of inclusivity”.
Phakeng said universities were microcosms of society and UCT wanted to help build a culture of inclusion and acceptance.
The option to choose titles is part of the university’s newlyadopted inclusivity policy for sexual orientation.
“This policy sets out guidelines to inform and educate UCT staff and students in terms of making appropriate choices on the use [of] terminology in teaching practice‚ communication‚ health care and administrative services.”
The policy applies to staff‚ students‚ governance structures‚ societies‚ clubs and third parties. The policy document defines “inclusive language” as the “use of gender nonspecific language to avoid imposing the limiting assumption of heterosexuality and to present an open social climate for nonheterosexuals”.
Current students can also change their titles and will be issued with new students cards at no cost.
Wits University took a decision earlier this year not to use titles such as Mr‚ Ms or Mrs to reflect a student’s designation.