The Department of Higher Education and Training condemns the violent students’ protests at our universities. The department condemns the recent violence and destruction of property that has taken place at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Westville Campus. Property has been destroyed and vandalised, and the lives of individuals have been put at risk. The department further condemns the criminal element in operation, whose intention is not to advance the interests of students and the institution.
We call upon the management and the Council of UKZN to act decisively and take strong action against anyone found to have contributed to the violence and destruction of property. The management of the university must engage the South African Police Services (SAPS) to investigate and arrest anyone who engages in illegal activities and ensure that they face the full might of the law. We request the SAPS to assist with the safeguarding of university property.
The department urges all students to adhere to the University rules, regulations and applicable protocols in dealing with grievances and matters of concern. We call upon all student organisations and the Student Representative Councils (SRCs) to come out and condemn the destruction of property.
The department acknowledges that university students, like all members of our society, have the right to protest and voice their opinions and grievances. However, in doing so they have a duty to be dignified and peacefully and conduct themselves in a manner that respects both the rights and property of others. This right to protest is enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and upheld by the Department of Higher Education and Training at all times. However, we are vehemently opposed to illegal activity, violence and destruction of property, and we call upon the management of the university to take decisive action against those elements that are bent on using any excuse to turn our institutions into sites of violence and vandalism.
The department cannot and will not tolerate the destruction of property and threat to lives. The primary objective of our universities is teaching, learning and research, and these activities should remain sacrosanct.
The department acknowledges the initiative by the University management to engage students on issues of fee adjustments and other related matters in preparation for the 2016 academic year.
There is still time for more engagements between the management and students with a view to resolve issues and ensure an environment that is conducive to teaching and learning. In the instances where there are disputes, the department is always available and willing to engage with both parties with the hope of resolving such matters. Institutions must follow their rules and procedures to arrive at amicable solutions to whatever problems or challenges they may encounter, and take strong disciplinary action when it is warranted.
Enquiries:
Khaye Nkwanyana
Tel: 012 312 5555
Cell: 083 952 9723
E-mail: Nkwanyana.K@dhet.gov.za
