UCT Letter

I promise stories from Namibia and my past two weeks with my mum here (teaser: giraffe!) by the end of the week, but for now I thought I'd share a letter I received from UCT about a recent death here. I'm really impressed with how they're handling it in circulating full and accurate information as well as multiple resources.

Dear colleagues and students

It is with great sorrow that I must announce that first-year medical student Benny Pakiso Moqobane, 19, was shot last night at about 8pm on Monday night, 28 September, on Main Road in Observatory, close to his digs. On behalf of UCT, its staff, Benny's fellow students, and the Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Prof Marian Jacobs, I extend my deepest condolences to Benny's family.

Benny was walking with a fellow student on Monday night when we understand they were approached by an unknown number of men in a car on Main Road. Benny was shot immediately. His friend started running away and heard a second shot. When the attackers left the scene, the friend returned and found Benny dead.

Officials of the university immediately informed Benny's mother of the tragedy. The university has made its counselling services available to Benny's family, his digs mates, and his classmates in the Faculty of Health Sciences. Campus security officials are also in touch with the police officers in charge of this tragic case.

Benny came from Frankfort in the Free State and the University is making arrangements for his parents to travel to Cape Town.

I know that this incident has raised many questions and concerns. The university has set up a hotline for parents, students and staff to voice their concerns and get information. Please phone 021 650 5428 during office hours. You can also email Pat Lucas.

Sincerely

Professor Thandabantu Nhlapo
Acting Vice-Chancellor