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Rights Body to Probe Language Dispute at South African University

A language policy introduced at the University of Stellenbosch that changed the primary language of instruction from Afrikaans to English will be the subject of an investigation by the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC). The SAHRC said in a statement: "The SAHRC has received a number of complaints alleging that students at the University of Stellenbosch are being prevented from communicating in selected languages. The complaints received relate specifically to the use of Afrikaans. The Commission however seeks to understand the extent of this alleged prohibition."

According to Stellenbosch University, faculties may compile their own Language Implementation Plan. "The policy and plans will ensure that no student who has yet to master Afrikaans or English on an academic level will be excluded from academic tuition," the institution states on its website.

South Africa: Rights Commission to Probe Controversy Over Afrikaans at Stellenbosch University

Daily Maverick, 5 April 2021

Since March, Stellenbosch University's language policy has been under the media's gaze after misuse and deviation from it have been brought to the fore. At the centre of the debate… Read more »
South Africa: Rights Body to Probe University Language Policy

South African Human Rights Commission, 25 March 2021

The South African Human Rights Commission ("the Commission" or "SAHRC") has received a number of complaints alleging that students at the University of Stellenbosch ("SU") are… Read more »
South Africa: Stellenbosch University Is Committed to Inclusive Multilingualism - Stop Using Us As a Punchbag

Daily Maverick, 5 April 2021

There has been controversy around Stellenbosch University's language policy with regard to Afrikaans, some of it stirred by political parties. They pay no regard to the facts and… Read more »