Concerned Pandor steps in at WSU

THE Minister of Higher Education and Training Naledi Pandor has reacted with concern on the reports of the closure of the Walter Sisulu University (WSU) campuses due to student protests last week.

According to WSU spokeswoman Yonela Tukwayo, students at the Butterworth, Mthatha and Buffalo City campuses expanded their protest last week damaging property and putting people’s lives at risk.

“The students raised issues of accommodation and general infrastructure development, and this has led them to shut down these campuses by chasing staff from offices and stopping academic operations,” she said.

She said WSU vice-chancellor Professor Rob Midgley resolved to shut down these campuses with immediate effect.

In a statement, Pandor said she understood that some of the challenges that has led to the protests of these campuses, include the online residence allocation system and students who want to be funded by the National Student Financial Aid (NSFAS) but do not meet the requirements.

“I have instructed director-general Gwebinkundla Qonde to assign a team of senior officials to visit the WSU campuses with the aim of finding a solution to the challenges,” she said.

The minister added it was important for the university to resume its academic programme and make up for lost time as soon as possible.

“We are concerned about the safety of both staff and students and will provide assistance to the university to resolve this matter. I am hopeful that by working together with student leaders, staff and the university management we will find a solution,” said Pandor.