6 March 2009
The Minister of Education, Naledi Pandor has noted with serious concern
suspension of lectures, for the second time, within a short space of time at
the Durban University of Technology (DUT).
Both the Minister and the departmental officials have been in constant
contact with stakeholders of the DUT, since the beginning of February 2009.
The institution's stakeholders have held discussions on the challenges
confronting students. The minister is pleased that the Student Representative
Council (SRC) and the management have maintained communications and expect that
they would soon resolve their differences and the university would return to
normality.
The minister, however, is concerned at reports that tensions between student
organisations at several institutions has contributed to disruption of classes
and demonstrations. She has urged all formations on campuses to conduct their
programmes and discussions in a peaceful and democratic manner that reflects
South Africa's excellent progress in entrenching democracy.
Enquiries:
Lunga Ngqengelele
Ministerial Spokesperson
Tel: 012 312 5538
Cell: 082 566 0446
E-mail: ngqengelele.l@doe.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Education
6 March 2009
