The University of Stellenbosch has made a decision to again (as in 2020) not award any new first year students to Huis Marais. The existing Huis Marais students will have to move into the anex portion of the residence and the old Huis Marais building will become a co-ed residence (female and male) for senior US students. The Huis Marais as we knew it is effectively over.
This decision of the University of Stellenbosch was taken without any further consultation with the current residents and leaders. In the written statement issued by the US, it is stated that Huis Marais failed to transform its ethos over the last 11 months, with specific reference to equal treatment of persons of all races and gender and responsible use of alcohol. This statement has no factual basis and is simply not true. This statemant is also made notwithstanding the fact that the HK and residents of Huis Marais made a considerable effort to address their ethos over the last year, through a comprehensive and definitive plan of action. A great deal of effort was put into it and Huis Marais provided the US with a lenghty report as to their progress. Huis Marais also requested that they be allowed to render further input and to be consulted before the US makes any drastic decisions. The US however remained silent and did not provide any further comment or guidance, and after a period of almost 5 months reverted with their final answer, which is their aforementioned decision. By signing this petition against the decision of the US, you support the argument that Huis Marais must remain a male residence, with first year students for 2021.