POLITICS

77% of students support resumption of classes - Wits

University says decision as to whether to re-open on Monday will be communicated this week

WITS POLL: MAJORITY OF STUDENTS SUPPORT GOING BACK TO CLASS ON MONDAY

30 SEPTEMBER 2016

The University of the Witwatersrand conducted a poll on Thursday, 29 September 2016 to canvass the views of students and staff. They were asked if they wanted the academic programme to proceed on Monday, 3 October 2016, if there was appropriate security in place.

The interim results of the poll indicate that the significant majority of students want the academic programme to resume on Monday.

The interim results of the student poll are detailed below:

TOTAL RESPONSES

YES

NO

21 730

16 739 (77%)

4 991 (23%)

One of the leading firms in the country, SizweNtsalubaGobodo audited the poll and provided the interim results.

STAFF

The University is still waiting for the auditors to verify the staff poll. These results will be made available as they come through.

WAY FORWARD

The results of the poll as well as feedback from parents, alumni and other stakeholders will inform management’s decision-making.

Management will also reach out to the student leadership, unions and other stakeholders to engage on a way forward.

A decision as to whether the University will re-open on Monday will be communicated to students and staff via official University communication channels this weekend.

Statement issued by Shirona Patel, Wits University, 30 September 2016