About the Dispute Resolution Management Committee

The Dispute Resolution Management Committee (DRMC) is an independent student governance body established under the UCT Student Constitution and governed by its Standing Rules. It operates independently of all other student governance structures and is subject only to the Constitution and its own procedural framework.

The DRMC exists to provide fair, and impartial mechanisms for resolving disputes within student governance. It ensures that conflicts between student structures and members are addressed efficiently, transparently. 

The DRMC promotes accountability, cooperation, and the effective functioning of student leadership structures by offering two primary dispute resolution mechanisms: mediation and arbitration.

Powers and Functions

The Dispute Resolution Management Committee has the authority and responsibility to:

  • Oversee and manage dispute resolution processes among student governance structures and members through mediation and arbitration procedures.
  • Determine the most suitable mechanism for the resolution of each dispute, whether by means of mediation or arbitration.
  • Appoint competent, impartial, and suitably qualified mediators and arbitrators to preside over dispute resolution processes. 

Dispute Resolution Management Committee Members

The DRMC consists of members, appointed by Student Parliament. 

Dispute Resolution Management Committee Members 2025/26
Full name PortfolioEmail
Thando LukheleChairpersondrmc@uct.ac.za
Basheera PatelSecretary drmc@uct.ac.za
Tumelo MogashoaTreasurerdrmc@uct.ac.za
Andiswa ButeleziMember drmc@uct.ac.za
Candice PhiriMember drmc@uct.ac.za
Godfrey ModisaneMemberdrmc@uct.ac.za
Tamia CarelseMember drmc@uct.ac.za

Frequently Asked Questions

The DRMC manages dispute resolution between student governance structures and their members through mediation and arbitration.

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Mediation is a voluntary, confidential, and non-binding process where a neutral mediator assists parties in reaching a mutually acceptable resolution.

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Arbitration is a formal process where a panel makes a binding decision after hearing both sides of a dispute.

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Mediation is generally the first step, but arbitration may proceed where mediation fails or is inappropriate.

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Yes. Arbitration rulings are final and binding, subject only to procedural review by the Student Governance Court.

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Non-compliance is treated as misconduct and referred to the Student Governance Court for possible sanctions.

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