Wits concludes sexual harassment case

JOBURG – University of the Witwatersrand vice-chancellor Professor Adam Habib announced an end to the investigations into cases of sexual harassment.

The announcement came after the fourth lecturer accused of sexual harassment resigned from his post.

“Wits University was investigating four academics who were accused of sexual harassment this year. Three of the accused were dismissed by the university with immediate effect, following the outcomes of their respective disciplinary hearings,” said Habib.

He added that the recent resignation brought to an end the individual cases of sexual harassment the institution had investigated.

“It provides us with an opportunity to remember that the university has a zero tolerance policy towards any form of sexual harassment, and that it will deal decisively with such matters,” said Habib.

Professor Bonita Meyersfeld, head of the university’s Centre for Applied Legal Studies, will head up the sexual harassment structure being established by Wits. Going forward, Meyersfeld will deal with all matters related to sexual harassment at the university.

“We express our appreciation to members of the Wits community who participated in bringing these disturbing issues to the fore, and we apologise to those who have been affected by this scourge. May these dreadful experiences never be repeated again… on our campuses,” concluded Habib.