Stellenbosch University Probes A White Student For Racism After A Viral Video Of Him Urinating On A Black Student’s Belongings
Stellenbosch University has found itself in yet another racism scandal. Hundreds of the university’s students gathered in protest over an alleged racist incident that occurred at the institution’s Huis Marais student residence over the weekend. The protest was in response to a video of a white student by the name of Theuns du Toit urinating on a black student’s belongings. Footage taken by the victim went viral and was widely shared on social media by Monday morning, immediately sparking outrage and condemnation.
In a statement released, the university condemned what it referred to as the “destructive”, “hurtful”, and “racist” incident as shown in the footage, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Student Affairs senior director Dr. Choice Makhetha said: “The student affected is still in shock after this very upsetting and painful ordeal. He is still trying to process what happened and was offered counselling. He will be supported as and when required to ensure his academic progress is not affected by the incident.”
In an interview with Newzroom Afrika, Dr. Makhetha also expressed that the university has a zero-tolerance policy concerning racism and called for the alleged perpetrator’s expulsion as a suitable punishment.
Du Toit has since been suspended from Stellenbosch University, pending a disciplinary hearing. This is amidst an investigation by the South African Human Rights Commission, which has strongly condemned the incident.
