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UM Statement regarding the tutorship of dr. Phillip Dorstewitz for Saif Al Gaddafi between 2002 and 2004

Maastricht University is a Dutch research university that maintains high standards of scientific education and research, both in content and regarding the scientific integrity of its staff and students.

The rector of Maastricht University had been informed about a publication in the Daily Telegraph (Thursday 1 December) in which was stated that one of the current staff members of Maastricht University, Phillip Dorstewitz, previously has been engaged as a private tutor of Mr. Saif Al Gaddafi during Mr. Gaddafi’s studies at LSE. The article raised doubts on the role of Dr. Dorstewitz as a tutor and if scientific integrity has been breached.

Maastricht University carefully read the “Woolf report” published by the LSE Council, which earlier authorised an independent inquiry by Lord Woolf into the ties between LSE and Libya. It also consulted the LSE on Dr. Dorstewitz’s role in tutoring Dr. Saif Al Gaddafi, and the dean of the faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Prof. Rein De Wilde, held a personal interview with Dr. Dorstewitz. The rector of Maastricht University has come to the conclusion that there is no reason for questioning the personal or academic integrity of Dr. Dorstewitz. 

It also has been explained to Maastricht University that tutoring as it is understood in the British context differs from a Dutch context. It is not unknown in the UK for students or their parents to engage private tutors for helping students to progress in their studies.

If you want to respond to this statement, please contact Jeanine Gregersen, spokesperson of Maastricht University, j.gregersen@maastrichtuniversity.nl