Stranded Limpopo students back home
Almost 200 students, who were left homeless for three days after the University of Limpopo shut down, are safely back home.
The university suspended academic activity indefinitely following protests by students for free higher education. University of Limpopo students held a peaceful night vigil on Tuesday. But 24 hours later students were ordered to vacate campus residences.
Students from Kwa-Zulu Natal, Mpumalanga, Gauteng, North West and Eastern Cape had no money to go back home as many of them had just travelled back to the university following the academic recess. Students could be seen in the streets of Turfloop with signs begging for any money from motorists and local businesses.
Concerned fellow students helped raise funds and provide shelter in local churches for all those left destitute.
"Students were not given enough time to make arrangements to go home, our parents have not been paid and so many students have no money to go back home," concerned student Samson Rapawu said.
All students were finally on their way home by 5pm on Saturday.
When contacted by Jacaranda FM News, the university's Vice Chancellor Mahlo Mokgalong insisted that no student was left stranded. He added that there is, in any case, nothing the university could do should any of its students be stranded.
The students expressed their gratitude to all those who donated money and transport to assist students.
“We thank all South Africans and those who contributed," said Rapawu.
The university suspended classes indefinitely and is yet to indicate when it will open its door again.