Artful transformation

THE University of Cape Town shares the concerns expressed by the students calling themselves #Umhlangano, “Art of non-violence” (Cape Times, October 3). Art plays a critical role in expressing the messages of social justice. UCT is proud of students who use their talents in creative expression for issues such as transformation. Similarly, we support the role of legal protest in identifying areas in society tha t are in need of critical change.

UCT has demonstrated over a series of engagements with protesters over the weekend that we are willing to accommodate their demands.They appear to be trying to push UCT into a potential indefinite shutdown. This is not possible and it would be harmful to all students. It could lead to a forced reduction in UCT staff and a collapse of our contribution to financial aid; it could limit our ability to attract international scholars and research partners. The hundreds of health science graduates, who are scheduled to enter the South African health system in January, will be unable to do so, which will put an already compromised health system at further risk. Vice-chancellor Dr Max Price has committed the university to exercising restraint in the use of security on campus. Students are occupying university offices and other facilities across UCT: the Steve Biko Students Union Building, the Dean’s Suite in the Health Sciences faculty and parts of Hiddingh campus. They are entering buildings and setting off fire alarms to disrupt residences and lectures. They are setting up roadblocks that prevent other students from attending classes and staff from coming to work. All of this behaviour is illegal. It is morally and constitutionally wrong. It violates the rights and freedoms of other people.

UCT does not and cannot support such action. In a democracy such as South Africa, true creativity can find ways of expression that do not break the law. Patricia Lucas UCT