Nzimande calls on universities to tighten security and 'protect life and limb'

The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Blade Nzimande has strongly condemned violent student protests that have taken place at a few universities in the country.

In a statement, Nzimande says the violent protests which led to damages at two university campuses are "wholly unacceptable and provides no solution to student concerns."

This week, members of the SA Union of Students said they want to shut down at least 20 universities by Thursday over issues relating to registration and historical debt. 

"Surely that is a national crisis that requires the attention perhaps even of the President," said the union's Thabo Shingange. 

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 "Protesting students must refrain from intimidating the general student population and university employees by making inflammatory and provocative statements that incite violence," said Minister Nzimande in response.

The Mahikeng campus of the University of North Wet was closed amid violence this week. 

Nzimande warned students that "destruction of property is a criminal offence and all those engaging in such acts will be apprehended by law enforcement agencies and face the full might of the law".

Nzimande reiterated his commitment to further engagements with student leaders but said damage to property and violence can never be tolerated.

"My door is always open for any further engagement and discussion. However, such engagements cannot take place in an environment of violence and destruction," says Nzimande.

Nzimande said NSFAS qualifying students who carry debt from 2019 would be allowed to register at universities, provided they sign the Acknowledgement of Debt (AOD) form at the institution to which they are returning. 

First-time students who are admitted to universities but did not apply for NSFAS for whatever reason will also be able to register by signing an AOD. 

"NSFAS will process their applications in partnership with the university, and if they are eligible for funding they will receive the bursary and the students will carry no debt going forward," said Nzimande. 

He said all students whether they owe the university or not, must be allowed to access their academic records and examination results, either for the purpose of pursuing employment opportunities or for further study;

He said all NSFAS-qualifying students are able to register at all 26 public universities without paying an upfront or registration fees. 

The Minister called on university vice chancellors to tighten up security and take any measures necessary to prevent any form of destruction "and to protect life and limb."

The Minister and the Department will closely monitor developments at all universities and, together with university management, will respond to ensure the safety of all students.