. The VC acknowledged that transformation of diversity profile of the university was slow and a continuous work in progress. The university had 800 black students in 1994 and 9000 black students in 2013 and majority of these black students were at post-graduate level. . The university believed in enhancement of rural areas. Rural development formed part of the university strategic plan to improve the lives of disadvantaged communities. A number of rural development partnerships had been implemented in the rural towns of Bredasdorp, Worcester and 10 other towns where the university assisted with legal aid clinics. . Student successes was contributed by a good learning and living space. Retention of first year students at the university was 70% compared to the national average of between 40 to 50%. The STAG partnership came as result of the university's quest for innovative cost efficient student housing.