Strict conditions as campus opens

UNIVERSITY of Zululand (Unizulu) students are expected to go back to classes on Wednesday.

The KwaDlangezwa Campus was shut down following a fiery riot over unpaid food and transport allowances on campus two weeks ago.

All classes were suspended as the riot resulted in buildings being vandalised, property set on fire, a police vehicle torched and a fire engine stoned.

Thirty-two students were arrested during the rampage.

Twenty were charged with public violence and 12 with burglary.

According to the university, ‘Management has decided it is in the best interest of students to uplift the suspension of academic activities and permit students to return to campus and residences, subject to certain conditions.’

According to the university statement, all students who

Unizulu KwaDlangezwa Campus open for students

wish to return and resume their academic programmes must reactivate their student cards.

‘By reactivating the student cards, students acknowledge that they understand the terms and agree to strictly comply with the conditions.

‘Reactivating their cards means students undertake not to engage in any illegal protest action, unlawful activity or conduct themselves in any manner that jeopardises the peace and security on the campus and residence or hinders the academic programme in any way.

‘This closure was the best recourse under the circumstances to restore order, eliminate harm and maintain a safe and secure environment.’

The university says students will not be permitted to enter the campus or residence if

Wellington Makwakwa their student cards are not reactivated, as they will be compelled to produce their cards at the request of any Protection Services Department officer or other staff member.

On Monday, the opening was for residence students only and on Tuesday all other students were requested to activate their cards.

Lectures resume on Wednesday.