UKZN launches investigation after unauthorised cheerleading team performance goes viral
THE University of KwaZulu-Natal has launched an internal investigation following a trending video of the UKZN Cheerleaders at a music concert over the weekend. The institution is arguing that the performance was not authorised by the institution. In this image the group is at a typical sports-related event.
Image: Instagram/UKZN Cheerleaders
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has distanced itself from a trending video featuring its cheerleading team, saying the performance was not authorised by the institution and that an investigation has been launched to establish the relevant facts.
In a statement issued on Monday, the university said the students’ participation in the event was undertaken independently and without the knowledge or approval of UKZN’s relevant administrative or sporting structures.
“The participation by this group of students was undertaken independently and without the knowledge or approval of the university’s relevant administrative or sporting bodies. Therefore, any assertion suggesting that the university approved or was formally represented at the event is incorrect,” the statement read.
A typical sports-related performance by UKZN Cheerleaders. The University of KwaZulu-Natal has distanced itself from trending videos where the group was seen cheering and dancing at a music concert in KwaHlabisa arguing that it wasn't authorised.
Image: Instagram/UKZN Cheerleaders
While the university did not name the event in question, the circulating videos show the cheerleaders performing at the Mthandeni Summer Experience held at Mkhaliphi Stadium in eMdletsheni, KwaHlabisa in Northern KwaZulu-Natal, which took place on Saturday and ended Sunday morning.
UKZN said it supports students’ involvement in sport, cultural expression and a wide range of extracurricular activities, but stressed that such participation must take place within established institutional protocols.
The university warned that the unauthorised use of its name, branding or identity has the potential to expose the institution to reputational harm.
The videos sparked debate on social media, with some users expressing surprise at seeing a university cheerleading team performing at a music concert.
The annual Mthandeni Summer Experience is organised by popular maskandi artist Mthandeni Manqele.