In an interview on Newzroom Afrika today, 18 August 2025, Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela, disclosed that the University of Cape Town has asked the Department of Higher Education to investigate allegations of a young woman who was allegedly raped and then offered marks a degree in exchange for silence.
This revelation by Manamela further highlights the need for meaningful safety interventions at UCT.
If the University of Cape Town and Department of Higher Education are in possession of potential criminal evidence, then criminal charges must be laid with the South African Police Service.
The DA Student Organisation at the University of Cape Town is currently vigorously engaging with the University on campus safety and on issues of the security of students which is a serious concern.
This revelation by Manamela further highlights the need for meaningful safety interventions at UCT.
We will not allow any evasion of responsibility on this matter.
The DA Student Organisation stands firmly against all forms of Gender-Based Violence at higher education institutions.