After a marathon eight-hour meeting on Monday, Stellenbosch University’s council decided to appoint a committee of three to probe allegations of nepotism against Vice-Chancellor Professor Wim de Villiers.

Acting council chairperson Dr Nicky Newton-King confirmed a motion in terms of the university’s statute to dismiss De Villiers was tabled during the council meeting on Monday.

The motion was placed on the agenda by the DA’s Stellenbosch constituency head and council member Leon Schreiber and seconded by Jan Heunis, the president of the university’s convocation.

The council agreed the matter should first be referred to a council committee of three people, of which one would be an independent legal professional.

The committee would investigate the facts underlying the motion, including allegations of nepotism and a possible breach of related rules in relation to De Villiers’ discretionary placement of family members at the university.

“The allegations of nepotism are grave,” Newton-King said in a statement.

She added the council recognised the impact this issue had had on university’s stakeholders.

“Once council has the committee’s report, it will evaluate it and consider the motion brought by Dr Schreiber.

“Council recognises the importance of addressing this issue as a matter of urgency and is committed to doing so in a manner that is fair to both the university and the rector and vice-chancellor, and in which the institution’s stakeholders can have confidence,” Newton-King said.

Rapport revealed earlier this month De Villiers had used his discretionary right to secure a place for his wife’s nephew at the university’s medical school.

This came to light when an applicant with better matric marks did not get accepted in the same course.

After receiving questions, De Villiers withdrew his nephew’s placement.

The council also decided to review the discretionary placement policy in its totality.

“We welcome the opportunity for scrutiny and reflection, enabling us to maintain the high standards we are known for and address areas of possible improvement.

“I want to provide the assurance that the stability and continuity of the university at this time is our priority,” said Newton-King.

News24