The Times Editorial: Reports that the University of the Free State is embroiled in yet another racism scandal are deeply disappointing.

The latest incident, involving a student from the university who, together with another young man, confronted matric pupil Pinky Mokemane near a private residence off campus, grabbled her by the arm and allegedly dragged her for a short distance alongside their car while shouting racial insults at her, is a huge setback for the university.

Under the leadership of its new vice-chancellor, Prof Jonathan Jansen, the university is striving to throw off the shackles of its whites-only past and become a truly South African institution.

Jansen was savagely criticised seven months ago when, in an extraordinary - and extremely controversial - reconciliatory gesture, he dropped disciplinary charges against four white students who had demeaned five cleaners in a racist video that made international headlines.

By forgiving the ''Reitz 4'' and inviting them back to the campus, Jansen put his job on the line. Youth leaders literally bayed for his blood until wiser heads called them to order.

Education Minister Blade Nzimande called on Jansen to suspend his decision ''pending the outcome of a process of institution-wide, meaningful consultation''. Jansen did not comply, but consultation did start and the furore died down, allowing Jansen to continue with his task of refashioning the campus.

Now this. The young men who allegedly attacked Mokemane reportedly appeared in court last week on charges of attempted murder, crimen injuria and assault with intent to commit grievous bodily harm.

If convicted, the student faces expulsion and the possibility of an Equality Court hearing.

Suspending him pending the outcome of the trial might be the wisest course.