UCT ‘notes with concern’ VC Phakeng being threatened on campus

The University of Cape Town said it “noted with concern” the institution’s vice-chancellor professor Mamokgethi Phakeng taking to social media on Tuesday to voice her frustration after being “threatened”. Phakeng said she had been walking from her car to her office when someone who was “not a white person” threatened her.

“My heart is beating fast, I am sweating and angry! Thanks to the person who threatened me this morning as I was walking from my car to my office. I refuse to waste UCT money on a driver or bodyguard. Go ahead and do what you want. NB: It’s not a white person,” said Phakeng.

She said the incident, however, did not ruin her day as she was “fine and continuing as if nothing ever happened”.

My heart is beating fast, i am sweating &angry! Thanks to the person who threatened me this morning as I was walking from my car to my office. I refuse to waste UCT money on a driver or bodyguard. Go ahead & do what you want. 😤😤😤
NB: It’s not a white person.

— Kgethi Phakeng, PhD(Wits); Hon DSc (UBristol) (@FabAcademic) February 5, 2019

Responding to Phakeng, UCT said it had noted the incident “with serious concern” and had escalated the matter to the institution’s Campus Protection Services.

“We ask all staff and students to please report all safety & security incidents to the nearest CPS officer or CPS office so that they can be thoroughly investigated. If you ever need assistance, please call the CPS 24-hour emergency hotline on 021 650 2222/3,” said the institution.

Phakeng received messages of support from people who suggested that the university provide private security for her.

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