UCT SRC noted that as of the first day of emergency remote teaching, the University has failed to deliver laptops and allocate data to all students. 

SRC, as well as ICTS, has been inundated with messages from students who have not received their data allocation. They have also been disappointed to learn that laptops deliveries are only expected to be completed by 8 May and that the delivery of hardcopy materials has not yet commenced.

Despite this, the University has allowed teaching to commence. Due dates are piling up and test dates are being set: students without resources are suffering.

Management has also stated that course conveners must allow flexibility in terms of submission dates, but there seems to be a disconnect between UCT "headquarters" Bremner and the rest of the University. Students have been informing the SRC of academics who are enforcing due dates and disregarding the circumstances of students.

Last week, the SRC asked for an extension of the Online Orientation Week, to allow resources to reach all students. This was rejected by management, who are of the view that an extension of O-Week would inconvenience the academics and further delay the academic calendar. UCT management seem very comfortable with leaving students behind to appease the academics. 

UCT SRC then took the request for an extension to a meeting of Senate. This was blocked by management and could therefore not be tabled for debate or consideration.

UCT SRC has done their best to ensure students are provided with the resources they need to succeed with online learning, but it has become clear that the University of Cape Town has no interest in true transformation: cosmetic measures to boost its image will suffice.