South African academics are being asked to boycott Israeli institutions, even if it means funding will be cut.
“It’s a stance we need to take and we should not be deterred by this form of pressure,” said Professor Salim Vally of the University of Johannesburg. “Even the government who provides subsidies to the universities have not told universities what to do. They expect them to do the right thing”.
Vally’s comments come after Dr Naledi Pandor, former international relations minister, raised concern about donors withholding funds from universities participating in an academic boycott against Israeli institutions.
“South Africa’s support for the struggle for [Palestinian] sovereignty has resulted in some key research initiatives that rely on international funding facing the threat of funds being withdrawn,” she told the Science Forum South Africa in Pretoria last week.
“This is reportedly happening to universities that have decided not to pursue links with institutions in Israel that have links to the military actions in Palestine,” she added.
SMread: ‘Israel suppressing Arab identity’
Academic boycott
The Palestinian education system has been battered by more than a year of Israeli bombardment. Since the occupation forces began a genocidal war in Gaza in October 2023, more than 100 professors and 12 000 students have been killed.
A number of universities worldwide have been pressured to cut ties with Israeli institutions that have links to the military.
At least one South African university has experienced funding cuts for its stance. But Vally said this was no time to cave in under pressure.
“As we call for boycotting Israeli institutions, the other aspect is to support Palestinian academics who are trying to rebuild their institutions. We need to do both. We should not despair,” he said.
Picture: Anadolu Agency
