Free State - University of the Free State chancellor Professor Jonathan Jansen has told first year students he is ashamed of South Africa, it was reported on Monday.
“I'm ashamed of South Africa. It's an absolute disgrace that you can pass matric with a mark of 30 percent. (Education Minister Angie) Motshekga is making a giant mistake by boasting about the matric pass rate. It's an absolute disgrace,” Jansen said, according to Beeld newspaper.
He cautioned students not to approach him with “sad stories and excuses like love problems,” as it was a waste of time.
“I always make time for students, but before you make an appointment, my secretary looks at your academic record. If you've failed a subject, I'm not going to waste my time with you,” he told 4000 first-year students.
Jansen said this year's first year students were the brightest in the university's 109-year history.
“You all are my children, and parents should be strict. If you pick up a stone and throw it on campus, I'll expel you. If you hit someone, I'll expel you. If you're angry, I'll expel you. If you treat a woman disrespectfully, I'll expel you,” he warned.
“You may be poor, but you can behave decently, my mother always said.” - Sapa