UCT Black Alumni Bolstering Support for UCT Council and Gaza Resolution

The University of Cape Town Association of Black Alumni (UCTABA) stands in solidarity with the UCT Council’s reaffirmation of its core values and its commitment to academic freedom, social justice, and ethical leadership. We acknowledge the Council’s rigorous deliberations on critical challenges, including the threat of defunding, and commend its resolve to uphold the university’s principles under immense external pressure.

1. Unwavering Support for the Gaza Resolution

UCTABA unequivocally supports the Council’s June 2024 Gaza resolution, which aligns with UCT’s long-standing commitment to human rights, justice, and global solidarity. We reject any efforts to rescind this resolution, as doing so would undermine the university’s moral integrity and its role as a beacon of principled advocacy. Alumni worldwide stand united in affirming that the resolution reflects our collective values, and we categorically distance ourselves from any UCT Council members claiming to represent alumni while advocating for its reversal.

2. Diversification of Funding for Sustainability

While UCT has righfully earned its status as a leading recipient of international grants, the current geopolitical climate underscores the urgent need to diversify funding sources. UCTABA urges the university to prioritize partnerships with Global South nations, BRICS allies, and progressive global institutions that share its values. This strategic shift will fortify financial resilience and align funding with UCT’s mission of equitable global engagement.

3. Condemnation of Security Breaches

UCTABA condemns the unethical leak of confidential Council deliberations to external media. Such actions erode trust in governance processes and risk exacerbating institutional vulnerabilities. We support the Chair’s call for an urgent investigation and urge transparency in addressing this breach.

4. Recognition of Institutional Stability

We applaud Vice-Chancellor Professor Mosa Moshabela and his executive team for their tireless efforts to stabilize UCT’s finances, reduce deficits, and maintain academic

excellence. We remain committed to supporting these efforts, including through fundraising initiatives that align with our values.

Call to Action

UCTABA calls on all stakeholders—including UCT Convocation, students, staff, and global partners—to defend UCT’s autonomy and values. We urge the Convocation to publicly reaffirm support for the Gaza resolution and reject divisive attempts to rescind the well supported Gaza Council resolution.

As alumni, we reaffirm our commitment to a university that champions academic freedom, justice, and integrity. UCT’s legacy must not be compromised by short-term pressures, and we stand ready to mobilize our global network in defense of its principles.

Issued by

Adv Rod Solomons
Deputy President: UCTABA
0692839983
(On behalf of the UCTABA family)