University of Venda shutdown amid student protest

Spokesperson Takalani Dzaga says classes couldnt continue due to the tensions on campus. 

"Since Monday, students have been blockading the main gate which makes it difficult for staff and other students to access the campus. So we took the decision because we don't want them to put themselves at risk by coming in everyday to check how the situation is. We have told them to stay home until the situation is normal again" says Dzanga. 

He says the protest is sparked by demands for all students under the National Student Financial Aid Scheme to receive their allowances. 

"The process of paying their allowances started on Monday but they refuse to go to class until all of them receive their NSFAS allowance" says Dzanga 

Last month NSFAS confirmed it has approved funding for at least 291 747 students who applied for financial assistance for 2017 and says it expects the number to increase.