The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is facing turmoil as its Senate demands answers from the council after the abrupt cancellation of the rector and vice-chancellor recruitment process. This request, initiated by 102 senior academics, was sent to Registrar Dr. Nita Lawton-Misra. They're seeking an explanation for the cancellation. The matter will be discussed in a special Senate meeting on November 2.

UWC needs a new vice-chancellor as Prof. Tyrone Brian Pretorius's term ends in December 2024. Three candidates had been shortlisted for the role: Professors Vivienne Lawack, José Frantz, and Robert Balfour.

The council's decision to restart the entire recruitment process has left many, including UWC's Prof. Alan Christoffels, in the dark. He questions the decision, as UWC statutes clearly govern the vice-chancellor selection process, which should rely on recommendations from UWC stakeholder forums. Christoffels emphasizes the need for understanding the basis of the council's choice.

While Lawton-Misra's statement conveyed the outcome of the decision, it provided minimal insights into the rationale. The UWC community awaits further clarity after a special Senate meeting on November 2.

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