Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) refutes allegations raised by student leaders and submitted to the Special Investigation Unit (SIU). The university asserts its ability to provide accountability for its expenditures, noting that previous investigations into financial fraud accusations found no basis for such claims.
The Central Students' Representative Council (CSRC) forwarded a memorandum, along with supporting documents, to the SIU, raising concerns regarding financial integrity and administrative practices at the university. Student leadership stated that these documents were intended to substantiate concerns they have voiced over several years.
According to the CSRC, the SIU committed to responding to this memorandum within two weeks.
CPUT's Response to the SIU Appeal
A CPUT representative, Lauren Kansley, informed the Cape Argus that the university is aware of the SRC's appeal to the SIU. Kansley stated that any potential investigation by the SIU would confirm that the university can justify all and any expenses and has already accounted for them within standard auditing procedures.
She clarified that in addition to CPUT's annual audit, all funds are audited annually by external auditors, and a separate report is provided to management as well as the Department of Higher Education and Training. Furthermore, quarterly reports are sent to the University Council through its finance committee.
Kansley emphasized that this is proper procedure, and any claims that do not align with this procedure are merely malicious and unfounded. She also mentioned that allegations of misuse of funds have been previously reviewed.
In her words, reports from whistleblowers and accusations of fund misappropriation often originate from 'predatory individuals' seeking influence and personal gain, including influence over accommodation and institutional resources. Kansley added that external lawyers have reviewed various allegations in these reports and found no basis for them.
Student Leaders Raise Additional Concerns
The CSRC explained that the appeal to the SIU was not aimed at damaging CPUT but rather sought an independent assessment of the issues they had raised. Student leadership also expressed concern over attempts to suspend the CSRC president and other student leaders.
They claimed this occurred after student leaders challenged a directive requiring the vacating of hostels within 24 hours. However, CPUT denied the assertion that any members, including the president, are facing suspension or disciplinary action. When asked whether SRC members are facing such actions and on what grounds, Kansley replied: 'No, they are not.'