Together we can stop corruption, says SU Rector

“We must all stand together to break the spiral of corruption,” said Prof Russel Botman, Rector and Vice-chancellor of Stellenbosch University (SU) on Monday (4 March).

He was one of the speakers at an anti-corruption event held at Dagbreek Residence. The event was hosted jointly by Dagbreek Residence, Unshamedly Ethical and Exposed.

Prof Russel Botman addressing the audience. (Photo: Alec Basson)

Unshamedly Ethical is a campaign promoting ethics, values and clean living around the world. Exposed is an initiative of the Christian church worldwide to combat corruption and poverty.

Botman said corruption affects all South Africans. “Corruption is like a spiral that pulls everybody down.” According to Botman it can however be prevented if we are willing to act decisively.

“To fight corruption we need people who can stand up and who are willing to be critical and active citizens,” he said. “Critical and active citizens can help create a new world,” added Botman. He encouraged young people to make a contribution in this regard.

Concurring with Botman, Mr Hanno Jacobs, Primarius of Dagbreek Residence, said there is a great responsibility on all South Africans to find a solution to corruption. “Corruption is responsible for widespread poverty and by fighting it, we can also address the problem of poverty,” he added.

Mr Graham Power speaking at the event. (Photo: Alec Basson)

Mr Graham Power, Founder of Unshamedly Ethical, said many people commit corruption for material gain. He pointed out that 25% of every dollar earned in Africa is lost due to corruption.

Power was however positive about the role of young South Africans in the fight against corruption, stating that they will make a difference. Despite the high levels of corruption, Power said “we are the rainbow nation and the rainbow has not disappeared yet.”