Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology Statement on the brutal killing of Precious Ramabulana
The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Dr Blade Nzimande, is deeply saddened and wishes to pass his deepest condolences to the family, friends and fellow students of Precious Ramabulana, the 19-year old student who was studying at the Ramokhopha campus of the Capricorn TVET College.
Precious was brutally murdered on Saturday night in her rented room and was discovered on Sunday, the 24th November 2019.
According to a report from the law enforcement authorities, Precious suffered 52 stab wounds during this barbaric attack.
At the time of her unfortunate death, Precious was studying N6 Business Management and preparing for her final round of examinations.
“I denounce such barbaric and shameful acts against women, both in our institutions of learning and in society in general. Our society cannot continue another day harbouring such disgraceful people, who are hell-bent to tear the moral fibre of our society apart,” said the Minister.
Minister Nzimande further said that what is even more concerning is that this shameful act happens at the backdrop of President Cyril Ramaphosa launching the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children at Lephalale in Limpopo province.
“I trust that our criminal justice system will ensure a speedy apprehension and prosecution of those responsible for this dastardly act,” said Minister Nzimande.
The Minister said that the Department of Higher Education and Training, remain committed to create a safer and caring Post School Education and Training environment, where safety and protection all students, in particular female students and staff is guaranteed.
Minister Nzimande said that the Department is finalising the Policy Framework on Gender Based Violence in the Post-School Education and Training System, which will be published by end of March 2020 for implementation.
“I have engaged all of our institutions, both universities and TVET Colleges to improve campus safety and security. I will be getting a report from the Ministerial Task Team we appointed to advise me on issues of sexual harassment and gender-based violence and harm at our institutions, focusing on institutional policy alignment and initiatives to address gender-based violence in universities, confirmed Minister Nzimande.
The Minister further said that the Department of Higher Education and Training has mandated the Higher Health, a programme of the Department, to implement a Gender Based Violence programme in university and TVET college campuses to mitigate the problems of gender-based violence on campuses.
Enquiries:
Ishmael Mnisi
Cell: 066 037 8859
