Political violence at tertiary institutions
The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training is disturbed by the recent spate of politically-influenced violence at a number of institutions of higher learning in the country.
With most institutions holding or set to hold their student representative council (SRC) elections during the current period, the Committee noted with serious concern that such have in some cases been marred by violence among students of contesting parties.
The latest incident erupted at the Tshwane University of Technology, where a number of students were left injured after fights between two opposing political formations. Incidents of a similar violent nature have reportedly also taken place at Wits University.
Committee Chairperson Mrs Yvonne Phosa said this situation calls for urgent action by all authorities concerned so that it gets dealt with before it spirals into becoming a norm at campuses during election periods.
“It is very worrying to hear of occurrences of this nature where violence of a senseless nature is meted out by students at each other. Despite belonging to different political formations, we urge students to act in a manner that is civil and show political tolerance so that incidents of violence, which have no place in our higher learning environment, do not recur.
“Incidents like these are taking the country backwards when strides have been made to ensure that peace among all our people is secured through the upholding of equal human rights as stated in the Freedom Charter,” she said.
Mrs Phosa also calls on all political party leaders to desist from engaging in actions that incites violence among students.
“Political party leaders have to conduct themselves in a responsible manner rather than to be seen to be instigating violence. Leaders should not be the cause of disruptions which lead to violence at institutions of higher learning and training. We all have the responsibility of making a positive and constructive contribution in creating a conducive environment for students to learn good moral values and instilling a sense of accountability and good human relations for a better South Africa.”
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact:
Elijah Moholola
Tel: 021 403 2311
Cell: 081 509 1889
Email: emoholola@parliament.gov.za
