UCT issuing ear plugs during exams

THE University of Cape Town has confirmed that it is issuing ear plugs to students during exams. This comes after an image of a pair of earplugs was doing the rounds on social media.

“At each exam session, provision is made for ear plugs for all students who would like to use them. Students who wish to use the ear plugs have the option of doing so. These are supplied to mitigate any possibility of external noise. However, it must be stated that the noise levels in the venue are not above normal,” UCT spokesperson Elijah Moholola said.

A student at the university who spoke to the Cape Argus on condition of anonymity said that the earplugs were issued at the exam venues.

“There is no protesting and everything is very calm at the university,” he said.

Newly elected SRC president Karabo Khakhau said she did engage with management on this issue.

“Management’s response was that this is just a precaution just in case there are any disruptions,” Khakhau said.

Last week the Parliamentary committee for Higher Education stepped in to try to salvage the embattled University of Cape Town. On Thursday the committee visited the university and held talks with the SRCalong with the university management. During the meeting, the committee wasted no time drilling the SRC on its position during the protest.

The university remains tense after weeks of violent clashes. UCT has also beefed up security.