Johannesburg - Disciplinary steps have already been taken against two University of Pretoria students who were photographed in ‘blackface’, the university said on Wednesday.
The university has also launched an investigation into the incident. In the photograph, the two young women are seen smeared in dark brown paint and wearing attire meant to be that of domestic workers.
They also have pillows stuffed into their skirts to make their bums look bigger.
"The investigation began yesterday [Tuesday]," UP spokesperson Nicolize Mulder said on Wednesday.
The SA Human Rights Commission said it was not investigating the case as it did not receive a complaint.
"We didn't receive a complaint in this matter, we just learnt about it in the media," said spokesperson Isaac Mangena.
The picture, which had reportedly gone viral on social networking sites, was also published in various on Wednesday.
According to Beeld, the picture was taken at a private 21st birthday party.