To all those concerned about developments at UCT,

Thank you to UCT alumni in anticipation of your attendance of the UCT Convocation AGM and Elections this evening from 18h00. 

UCT Convocation AGM and Elections FAQ

When is the AGM and Elections?
This evening, Thurs 4 Dec 2025 from 18h00. 

How do I attend online?
You have to have pre-registered to attend online. If you did not pre-register, there is unfortunately no option to register today. There has been a change to the online attendance option-it is no longer being hosted on Microsoft Teams so please do not use any previous Microsoft Teams link that may be in your calendar in error. It has been confirmed UCT will use the AGM@Convene platform.  

How do I log onto the AGM@Convene online platform? 
You will use your personal login details that came in the email from Agm@Convene email address. Either click on the blue square button inside that email or copy your personal link from that email into your web browser. If you do not yet have a Agm@Convene personal login contact UCT ☎ 0216504140 or email nomcebo.msweli@uct.ac.za urgently. 

If I can't attend but did register for online can someone else vote in my place?
No. There is no option for you to appoint a proxy. If you can't make it, your own  representative must log on by using the personalised link in the Agm@Convene email and vote according to your express instructions. Alumni participation in Convocation is personal to you. 

How long will the AGM and Elections last?
Meeting has apparently been scheduled for 2 hours. 
If joining online, please log on by 18h00. Then you will need to vote for/against motions and vote in the elections section, which will be discussed in the later part of the meeting. 

Which motions must I vote for?
Vote for the motion on Academic Freedom moved by Henry Shields ✅ (motion 3 but the numbers may change so please look carefully). Vote against all other motions ❌. 

Motion 3: Protection of Academic Freedom, Freedom of Association, and Open Scholarly Collaboration

Proposed by: Henry Shields (BA, 1975) Seconded by: Kumesheran Moodley (BSocSci, 2000; LLB, 2004), David Nurek (PGDip Law, 1971)

Whereas 

1. Section 16(1)(d) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa guarantees “academic freedom and freedom of scientific research”; and 

2. Section 18 of the Constitution guarantees the “right to freedom of association”; and 

3. These rights form the foundation of a globally connected academic community; and 

4. The advancement of knowledge depends upon the free exchange of ideas, international collaboration, and the autonomy of scholars and academic research; and 

5. Restrictions on scholarly association, or limitations on institutional collaboration may infringe upon the rights protected in Sections 16 and 18; and 

6. Universities have a duty to uphold constitutional rights. 

Therefore, Convocation resolves that: 

1. This University affirms its commitment to the constitutional rights of academic freedom, freedom of scientific research, and freedom of association. 

2. Individual academics, departments, and research entities shall remain free to determine their own scholarly partnerships and networks, free from coercion or institutionalized restrictions. 

3. The University commits to fostering open dialogue, respectful debate, and broad international engagement as central components of its academic mission. 

4. Nothing in this resolution prevents academic critique, ethical reflection, or voluntary decisions by individual scholars regarding their research collaborations. 

How do I vote if I am attending online? 
Voting will be done on the Agm@Convene system itself by selecting the specific motion. You will be able to select For, Against or Abstain for each of the 5 motions.

UCT IT support helpline is available to assist you with any queries on AGM@Convene. Please call +27 21 650 7000. 

May I attend in person?
You can only attend in person if you pre-registered to attend in person. If attending in person, please try to get there early to facilitate sign in of the attendance register which may take some time. Priority for entry will be given to those who have registered. Venue capacity will not be exceeded. A large turnout is expected. 

Which candidates must I vote for?

A range of superb professionals are running for election. Please review their details and choose those whose values resonate with you. 

We have no connection to the candidates. Based on her CV and experience, we support Dr Teboho Seobi for President. 

Thank you for proactively speaking up as the voice of UCT alumni for the protection of academic freedom and ensuring the election of a UCT Convocation President and Exec that will move the focus of UCT beyond identity politics to the best interests of all stakeholders.