Wellington.Scoop

A joint letter opposing a name change for Victoria University has today been sent to Education Minister Chris Hipkins. It is signed by representatives of the branches of six political parties at the university – VicLabour, VicNats, New Zealand First Victoria University, ACT on Campus, Greens at Vic and the Internet Party.

The letter says:

We write to urge you to reject the proposed name change to Victoria University on the grounds set out in this letter.

We consider:

1. That the consultation process undertaken by the University has been deeply flawed

2. That there has not been equal opportunity for the case against the name change to be heard in forums and University council meetings

3. That the decision to pursue name change in spite of the overwhelming opposition expressed in submissions throughout the consultation process, polls and numerous petitions by students, staff and alumni, represents a gross contravention of the spirit of consultation.

4. That the overwhelming opposition to the name change makes clear that the proposal lacks demonstrable support

5. That statements by staff, students, alumni and university clubs that they will continue to refer to the institution as Victoria demonstrates that the decision lacks demonstrable support.

6. That the pursuit of a name change represents a gross mis-prioritisation of the University’s funding, time and resources.

7. That the reputation of the university will continue to be damaged by the name change process should that process continue.