Wed 12 June 2019
Dear Supporters,
PLEASE TAKE ACTION
UCT Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng, has issued a request to UCT stakeholders (including staff, students, alumni, and donors) to submit their views on the proposed academic boycott of Israel.
If you are a UCT stakeholder, we strongly urge you to submit your response in opposition to this boycott with your stated reasons and objections.
Below are some of the ramifications and repercussions that UCT would face if it decided to implement an Israeli academic boycott in any form:
- Severe damage to the principle of academic freedom at UCT, and a restriction in the ability of students and academics to pursue their academic inquiries freely.
- A loss in reputation and credibility for UCT as the leading university in Africa.
- A sense that Jewish students and academics may feel uncomfortable or unwelcome at a university that has severed ties with their Jewish, spiritual and religious homeland.
- A dilution of the quality of past and present degrees and certifications of the university, including those of alumni.
- A restriction in UCT’s ability to work with other international institutions and the subsequent degradation in its academic work.
- A loss of quality students and academics enrolling and working at the university.
- A likely decrease in donor funding, including contributions to bursaries.
- Alienating Christian and other non-Jewish supporters of Israel.
Please take action now by filling in the form below. The deadline is Friday 21st June. Don’t leave it too late:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/UCTcommunityviews_201906
Thank you for your continued support.
Rowan Polovin - Chairman
South African Zionist Federation: Cape Council