The University of Essex student union has established a Jewish society with "immediate effect" after anger at hundreds of students voting against its creation in a poll on the issue, with the university's vice-chancellor reiterating that the institution “will oppose any form of antisemitism”.

In a statement from the Student Union, the organisation confirmed that a decision had been made to “immediately ratify” the Jewish society.

“We publicly recognise the value of a Jewish society and are proud to announce that the University of Essex Jewish Society is now established with immediate effect”, the union’s statement continued.

“We are also reviewing the way that societies are ratified at Essex going forward, to ensure that all students have a safe and welcoming environment to meet with those of a shared experience and to celebrate their cultural or religious identity.”  

As reported by the JC last week, students at the university were given the ability to vote on the question “should there be a Jewish society?” on the student union website, with all student organisations subject to such ratification.

However, before the vote was abruptly cancelled while still under way, over a third of respondents, more than 200 students, had voted against it. Sixty four per cent had voted in favour of the establishment of a JSoc.  

In an email believed to have been sent out to the university’s entire alumni mailing list, the vice-chancellor, Professor Anthony Forster, said he was “pleased the Student Union’s Sabbatical Officer team has now met and, following a discussion with the Trustee Board, has jointly made the decision to immediately ratify the Jewish Society. I see the establishment of the society as an important means of supporting Jewish students to enhance their experience at Essex.”

Additionally, an academic at the university, Dr Maaruf Ali, who expressed open opposition to the proposed JSoc, was found to have shared antisemitic and Holocaust denying material on social media.

Commenting on this, Prof Forster said: “Serious allegations have been made against a member of University staff. In accordance with our university procedures, an independent investigation of these allegations has been initiated and whilst this takes place a member of staff has been suspended.

“The creation of a Students’ Union Jewish Society and the allegations made against a member of staff require us to address specific issues, but we must also ask ourselves some hard questions about the lived experience of Jewish students and staff at Essex and ensure we are a community that is genuinely welcoming and supportive to all.

“I have therefore asked the Deputy Vice-Chancellor to lead a review asking our Jewish students and staff to share their experiences of studying, living and working at Essex.”

The Union of Jewish Students commended the action taken by the University, after expressing its “shock” at last week’s incidents.

“We commend the swift, strong and supportive action taken, including suspension of the staff member in question and a full investigation”, a UJS spokesperson said.

“We look forward to seeing the progress of a review into support for Jewish students and staff. Assurances of the establishment of a Jewish society regardless of the vote are most welcome.

“There is certainly still a long way to go until antisemitism is eradicated from university campuses, but we are heartened that these steps will make a significant impact on improving the lives of Jewish students at the University of Essex.”