Stellenbosch University (SU) has made the decision to close its controversial Wilgenhof men’s residence, aiming to replace it with a male residence, Cape {town} Etc reports.
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This follows a series of incidents and concerns about the residence’s history and practices, particularly after a panel investigation into two rooms found at the residence earlier this year.
In January, during an audit of Wilgenhof, ‘disturbing items’ were discovered in two specific rooms.
One room, known as ‘Hool 88,’ was reportedly used by Wilgenhof’s internal disciplinary committee, the Nagligte, for disciplinary activities conducted at night.
The second room, named ‘Toe Argief,’ was filled with costumes, shoes and paraphernalia related to these secretive activities. The findings stirred controversy, and the items were immediately removed and stored, while the rooms were repainted and returned to their original functions.
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A panel consisting of SU’s Deputy Registrar of Governance, Ethics and Compliance, an independent advocate from the Cape Bar, and a former higher education executive was appointed to review the matter.
In its report dated 10 June, the panel recommended the permanent closure of Wilgenhof, citing its negative association with Stellenbosch University’s troubled, racially discriminatory history. The report noted that many, particularly black students and staff, viewed Wilgenhof as a symbol of SU’s problematic past rather than an institution of progress and inclusivity.
Acting on the panel’s findings, SU’s rectorate, under outgoing Vice-Chancellor Professor Wim de Villiers, unanimously supported the recommendation to close the residence.
De Villiers emphasised that this decision aligns with the university’s commitment to being a more inclusive and welcoming institution.
Following this, SU invited stakeholders to submit written representations regarding the potential closure, with the deadline for submissions set for 31 July.
On 24 June, the University Council deliberated on the matter, and after reviewing the recommendations and submissions, they decided to close Wilgenhof in its current form at the end of the 2024 academic year.
The residence will undergo upgrades during 2025 to ensure it complies with the Department of Higher Education’s policy on the minimum norms and standards for student housing at public universities.
The newly reimagined male residence is expected to reopen in 2026, reflecting a decisive shift from Wilgenhof’s controversial past while retaining its constructive aspects.
Meanwhile, alternative uses for the space during the transition year in 2025 are being discussed. Professor de Villiers reassured staff, students, and parents that this change represents SU’s ongoing efforts to foster an inclusive environment for all students.
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