Stellenbosch University (SU) has responded to a recent SMF News article about an SRC campaign through which students publicly highlighted how “the system” had failed them. The story, published on 3 March 2026 reported on how students at Stellenbosch University (SU) reacted to a Student Representative Council (SRC) board set up at the Rooiplein. The board invited students to write how they felt “The System” failed them. Most contributions were left anonymously.
The board on the Rooiplein set up by the SRC, on “HOW THE SYSTEM FAILS US” campaign. PHOTO: Kwanda Mkhonto
A notice from the SRC attached to the board explained the campaign. “This initiative seeks to tangibly bring those stories into the open to remind this institution and the broader Stellenbosch community […]that behind every statistic is a person fighting to be seen, supported, and given a fair chance,” it read.
Many of the issues raised, such as financial blocks and costly essential items, directly implicated SU. While SU had not responded by the time the previous article was published, it has since provided SMF News with a formal response.
“SU, in its very core, is contributing to a more equal society, with a focus on broadening access, inclusion, diversity, and service to society,” said Martin Viljoen, SU’s spokesperson.
Viljoen said that the institution is aware of the issues faced by the students. “SU is cognisant of the socio-economic realities, challenges, and inequalities in South Africa,” he said.
He added that there are many channels and services available to students at the university. These include but are not limited to the centre for undergraduate bursaries and loans, student societies, and student leadership structures.