Tawana Kupe resigns as UP vice-chancellor

Despite being cleared of alleged sexual harassment, Tawana Kupe has resigned as the vice-chancellor and principal of the University of Pretoria and will leave office at the end of July.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT CLAIMS AGAINST KUPE

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In October last year, University publication PDBY reported that Kupe appeared before the National Assembly’s Portfolio Committee for Higher Education, Science, and Innovation.

Despite having to answer on a range of burning issues faced by the institution, Kupe was accused by labour unions representing workers at the university of sexually harassing a female colleague and subsequently promoting her to a director position.

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Standing before the committee, Kupe said he is not afraid of any investigation.

“I fear absolutely no investigation. I put this on the record because as one member here said an allegation thrown out to you used willy-nilly without a basis in facts or an independent investigation are harmful”, says Kupe.

UP SEEKING KUPE’S SUCCESSOR

Kupe was appointed in 2019 with his contract set to end in January 2024.

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In a statement the University confirmed that plans to find Kupe’s successor will begin immediately.

“Appropriate interim arrangements that will help facilitate the smooth functioning of the institution will be put in place. I am confident that these interim arrangements, coupled with the expertise and dedication of the UP staff, will enable us to continue operating at the highest level”, says UP council Chairperson Kuseni Dlamini.

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Dlamini has expressed his gratitude to the outgoing Vice-Chancellor and Principal for his contributions to UP during his tenure.