UWC students hold up exams on campus

EXAMS at the UWC were disrupted yesterday after a group of protesting students went on the rampage and used fire extinguishers and set-off fire alarms.

This comes after months of protests from workers and students demanding that the university reinstate 144 Securitas staff dismissed following last year’s shutdown.

UWC spokesperson Luthando Tyhalibongo said UWC’s executive management was disappointed by the disruption of several of the scheduled examinations.

“The examinations which were disrupted will be rescheduled towards the end of the examination period and alternative examination dates will be communicated soon.

“We do not condone disruptions that prevent students from studying for, or writing, examinations and will be employing tightened security measures to preserve their right to do so,” said Tyhalibongo.

He said students would only be allowed access to exam venues with proof of ID; those without would only be granted entry after their eligibility had been verified.

“Searches may commence before entry to venues are granted, and students are encouraged to bring only stationery and approved material for open-book exams. Students are reminded that, once seated, examination rules apply and students must adhere to the instructions from invigilators.”

Tyhalibongo said those who fail to adhere and commit any action that interferes with other students, or disrupts the examination in any way, will be asked to leave.

Security personnel will be present at all examination venues to prevent disruptions and to ensure compliance with the rules, as stated.

He said the university had not received any demands or requests from the protesting students to meet with UWC management.

A #FeesWillFall student activist, requesting his name be withheld, said: “Management’s ongoing delay in re-employing the 144 dismissed Securitas staff and their unwillingness to listen to our demands has forced our hand. The student and #Insourcing worker movements cannot be separated and we stand in unity with our mothers and fathers.”