email sent to all ufs student from the vice chancellor. Dear - TopicsExpress

email sent to all ufs student from the vice chancellor. Dear Student University "Confessions" pages published on FacebookUniversity "Confessions" pages published on Facebook have gained huge popularity on social media – to the point of creating a global trend. We as the University of the Free State fully support and encourage the freedom of speech of our students. I would like, however, to offer a few points to consider before posting on these sites. I am concerned that the anonymity proffered by the administrators is in fact not guaranteed. Some of these confessions can be traced back to you and have some serious legal and social repercussions. This platform is a hugely influential one, creating a powerful opportunity to have a voice. Please consider some of these points before engaging with the “Confessions” pages on Facebook or any social media platform for that matter:The reputation of your educational institution is closely linked with your own reputation. Your qualification is your ticket to the market place and your future hopes and dreams. If you bring your educational institution down, you bring the value and credit of the qualification you have worked so hard to achieve, down too. When you comment on a confessions post, your Facebook identity becomes known. If your comments or confessions are defamatory, racist or criminal, and you are identified, action will be taken and you will suffer personal consequences. Before you post, carefully consider the consequences of what you are about to say – not only personally but also the consequences it could have on others. Are you sure you are prepared to carry these possible emotional injuries to yourself or others into your life? Could you be hurting yourself or another more than is necessary? Perhaps think twice, or amend your post before sending.Once you hit "send", your words are out there on a public forum, on the internet, for all to see. It cannot be erased. It might be amusing right now, or you might feel completely justified in the heat of the moment. There is a big chance, though, that it might come back to haunt you later on in your professional career.As a young person, this space could be used very constructively when it is treated as a safe place for all. A place for discussion, intelligent debate, perhaps some great humour and the kind of issues that those fortunate enough to be studying at a tertiary institution could focus on.If your actions in any way infringe on others, the university and our integrity as an institution of higher learning you may face formal action.Stay safe, and look after your friends! Regards Prof. Jonathan D Jansen Vice-Chancellor and RectorUniversity of the Free State