Dear Dr. Nkabane,

I hope this message finds you well. My name is Yongama Mafilika, a student formerly enrolled at Sol Plaatje University. I am writing to you with great distress and urgency to seek your assistance and guidance regarding my permanent expulsion from the institution following a disciplinary hearing held in 7 March 2025.

The disciplinary matter relates to a serious allegation of sexual misconduct, yet no criminal case was opened against me, and the alleged victim confirmed she could not remember anything and refused to open a case with SAPS. Despite this, the university proceeded with internal disciplinary action based largely on hearsay and circumstantial evidence.

I appealed the expulsion decision through the university’s internal processes up to the office of the Vice-Chancellor. My appeal was dismissed, citing inconsistencies in my statements, yet key witnesses who were present during the incident were never called, and critical evidence such as CCTV footage and a medical report were never produced. I believe this reflects a procedural and substantive unfairness that has now destroyed my academic life and personal dignity.

I have since approached several external bodies including:

Public Protector South Africa (PPSA)

Legal Aid South Africa

Council on Higher Education (CHE)

Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training

Despite my continuous efforts to find help and submit all relevant documentation, I remain locked out of university, disconnected from academic activities, and my NSFAS status is now uncertain. I fear I am running out of options while my future is slipping away.

I humbly ask your office to intervene where possible, or assist in facilitating further engagement with university leadership or the Department of Justice, as this matter has now exceeded institutional procedures and is violating my right to education, fair process, and dignity.

I am willing to provide all documentation and correspondence to support my case. Your assistance would mean everything to me during this very difficult time.

Thank you for your time and dedication to students like myself who are facing injustice.

Sincerely,
Yongama Mafilika