UNIVERSITY OF ZULULAND MEDIA RESPONSE ON THE ALLEGATIONS OF EXPELLING PREGNANT STUDENTS

The University of Zululand was invited as part of a series of hearings into gender policy matters at higher education institutions by the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) to do a presentation on the University’s gender policy and how the University is responding to these challenges. This took place on Thursday, 22 November 2018.

One of the issues raised was about allegations that the University had expelled pregnant students from University residences in their final trimester of pregnancy. When this question was asked by a journalist afterwards the University indicated that it will have to look into these allegations.

The SRC President, Nontobeko Zulu reiterated that “No student has been expelled due to pregnancy. When students leave the residence because of their imminent due date, they are not disadvantaged because they can still access the academic and social services of the University”. The University also accommodates students who make special arrangements with regards to commitments in their academic programme

The University is very much aware of the plight of female students and the status of women in general. It applauds and supports the progressive stance of the GCE for the attainment of gender balanced tertiary institutions.

Issued on behalf of University of Zululand Management

Media queries contact person:
Ms. Gcina Nhleko-Mdluli – APR
Director: Communications & Marketing
T: +27 35 902 6617
Email:nhlekog@unizulu.ac.za