Norris cries sabotage at UB
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Monday March 25, 2024 05:54
In an interview with Mmegi yesterday, Norris expressed concern over the spread of negative rumours and misinformation about the institution.
He attributed the rumours to the University’s ongoing restructuring, as well as delays in funding from government. As the University faces a difficult time, the Vice chancellor urged staff members to stop spreading rumours and work together to address the challenges facing institution.
Yesterday, the UB announced that it would delay paying staff salaries for the month of March because of financial constraints. Norris was quick to indicate that the University is not broke but rather government delayed crediting funds to the institution. Norris added that UB has since decided to commercialise its other functions as part of efforts to raise revenues.
Norris was also quick to point out that the recent resignation of his deputy vice chancellor, Teaching and Learning, Georges Ekosse, was not due to any conflict or ill-will within the institution.
“The deputy vice chancellor simply found a new opportunity elsewhere that was more appealing to him. “The University is in good shape. “Look at the institution’s strong rankings and the positive progress of its restructuring process,” he said.
He emphasised that the University is following the law in the restructuring process, and it is engaging all relevant unions in the matter. Norris said there is transparency on what is happening at the institution. Furthermore, he assured staff members that the objective of the University restructuring is not to cut jobs but rather to “ensure that each person is in the right position to maximize their potential and contribute to the University’s success”.
He also stressed that the University has talented staff members who are not always able to reach their full potential because they are not in the right positions for their skills and expertise. Norris, however, admitted that during restructuring some may lose jobs, while others may choose to take severance package. Norris said the restructuring process is ultimately about transformation which is moving the University forward and ensuring its long term success.
The Vice Chancellor responded to criticism of his leadership abilities by emphasising the importance of change and its “inevitable mix of good and bad outcomes”. Norris stated that he is open to new ideas and suggestions from staff members and other stakeholders. He also highlighted the University’s goal of becoming a hub for research and innovation, which could be a major boon for the country.