Stellenbosch University (SU) is in the process of renaming the RW Wilcocks building, and are calling for name proposals from students. Proposals are awaited until 26 August.
SU first announced on 24 July, via official communication, that they would be renaming the RW Wilcocks building, which currently houses the Department of History, among other academic departments and divisions.
Located on 52 Ryneveld Street, the RW Wilcocks building will soon see a name change. PHOTO: Savannah Bacon
According to Martin Viljoen, SU spokesperson, the renaming of the Wilcocks building forms part of an extensive visual redress process. Included in this, is the naming of buildings and residences in a way that points to a shared history and diverse stories, said Viljoen.
A Controversial Legacy
“[Due] to his association to apartheid-related matters and race-based policies and due to his connection to Hendrik Verwoerd, the legacy of prof RW Wilcocks (who was rector from 1933 to 1954) is shrouded in controversy,” said Viljoen.
“Wilcocks was a significant figure in perpetrating the crime against humanity that was apartheid,” said dr Claire Kelly, acting head of the Transformation Office and member of the Visual Redress Committee.
“Not only is [Wilcocks’] continued memorialisation at odds with SU’s vision…but it is deeply alienating for many members of staff and students who form part of our university community,” said Kelly.
The new name will be considered by the Executive Committee of Council, and all proposed names must be submitted according to the guidelines for nomination and naming, said Viljoen.
The SRC supports the decision to change the name of the building, according to Lewis Mboko, the SRC Chairperson.
“We welcome this progressive thinking as it transforms the campus, making it a great place for all the students,” said Mboko.
According to Viljoen, students will be represented on the council by two members of the SRC.
Students are encouraged to participate in the renaming process. Nominations for the renaming of the RW Wilcocks building will close on 26 August 2020. PHOTO: Savannah Bacon
Students are strongly encouraged to make use of this opportunity and participate in the renaming process, said Viljoen.
According to the Transformation Office, a name that frequently appeared is Lillian Ngoyi Building, which the building was informally renamed to during #FeesMustFall. According to Viljoen, the name could be included for consideration if it is nominated according to the outlined process.
This process includes filling out a nomination form and emailing it to tarien@sun.ac.za.
The RW Wilcocks building is across the road from the Ou Hoof Gebou, and is used by various academic departments, including social sciences and law students. PHOTO: Savannah Bacon.