The University of the Western Cape (UWC), located in Bellville, Cape Town, is a public university with a rich history tied to South Africa’s struggle for social justice. Established in 1960 by the apartheid government, it was initially intended as a higher education institution exclusively for people classified as "Coloured" under apartheid laws. This restrictive and segregated context defined its origins but also set the stage for UWC's evolution into a center for resistance, transformation, and academic excellence.
In its early years, UWC operated within strict constraints, both politically and academically, as the state sought to control the curriculum and administration. However, during the 1970s and 1980s, the university became a key site of anti-apartheid activism, playing a significant role in South Africa's liberation struggle. Students and faculty members mobilized against apartheid laws, and the institution actively aligned itself with the broader movement for justice, leading it to be known as a "University of the Left."
Post-1994, UWC has been committed to reshaping itself into an inclusive, multicultural university dedicated to social change, research excellence, and academic freedom. It continues to champion initiatives aimed at addressing South Africa’s social and economic challenges, with programs in law, health sciences, arts, and more. Notably, it is home to significant research entities such as the South African National Bioinformatics Institute (SANBI) and has been internationally recognized for its work in community development and social justice.
UWC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees across seven faculties, including Arts and Humanities, Community and Health Sciences, Dentistry, Economic and Management Sciences, Education, Law, and Natural Sciences. The university maintains a strong focus on research and social engagement, with initiatives aimed at addressing national and global issues.
Contact details for the University of the Western Cape (UWC):
Address: University of the Western Cape, Robert Sobukwe Road, Bellville 7535, Cape Town, South Africa
Phone: +27 (0)21 959 2911
Website: https://www.uwc.ac.za
The university's legacy as a place of academic transformation and social activism continues to define its mission to serve the needs of South Africa and the global community.
Come and stay at Broadway Guesthouse, and be delighted. This large guesthouse is situated next to the Louis Leipoldt Hospital in Broadway Street in the quiet suburb of Boston, Bellville. Operating as a guest house for more than 15 years... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Excellent Guesthouse offers luxury, comfort, style and warmth at affordable prices. 14 double rooms with en-suites is tastefully furnished and equipped with hot and cold air conditioners, TV Satellite, coffee-making facilities, a safe and more... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Our central location is ideal for business and leisure travel alike with easy access to main routes. All rooms have private entrances, each with its own bathroom, kitchenette and dining area. Secure on-site parking. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Keret Accommodation offers two luxury superior self-catering apartments. The apartments are luxuriously furnished, air-conditioned and fully equipped to accommodate up to 6 guests per unit. Keret specialises in leisure, corporate relocations and... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Serengeti Self Catering Units is situated 5 minutes walk from the famous Tyger Valley Shopping Mall and not even five minutes drive from the Velodrome and Bellville Athletics Stadium that is famous for hosting major sporting and social events. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
La Cotte Inn provides comfortable and good value self catering accommodation in Oak Glen, Bellville, Cape Town. Oak Glen is a centrally situated suburb close to main routes to Cape Town, Paarl, Stellenbosch etc. La Cotte Inn provides peaceful... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
B's Place provides self catering apartment accommodation in Welgemoed near Bellville, Cape Town. Welgemoed is a quiet and tranquil area in the Northern Suburbs of Cape Town. Accommodation comprises of a self catering apartment. Sleeps 2 adults sharing. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Ramasibi Bed & Breakfast would like to offer you customer satisfaction in a home away from home where service is our focus. Ramasibi Bed & Breakfast consists of five bedrooms with four en-suites and the fifth room's bathroom has been fully equipped... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Cat's Eye Cottages provides tranquil self catering accommodation in the quiet suburb of Vredekloof near Brackenfell, Cape Town. Cat's Eye Cottages, comprises two luxurious air-conditioned self catering suites, Cat’s Eye Jewel and Cat’s Eye Gem. Located in …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Thatchwood Cottage is situated in Pinelands which offers a self contained cottage with its own entrance and secure off street parking. There is a swimming pool and tranquil garden where guests can relax. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.