New TUT protests loom over bannings

David Matsena

The problems at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) are far from over after the university reopened this week, with scores of students denied entry onto the campus because of suspensions and debts.

“Only registered students who produced valid student cards were allowed on campus,” said TUT spokesperson Willa de Ruyter.

This prompted some with valid credentials to remain outside in solidarity with those who were barred.

Students expressed a desire for classes to commence, but they also want university management to lift the ban on all those who want to register, including members of the Student Representative Council (SRC).

“This is the time to show unity. We can’t allow the management to divide us. We were fighting together as students and for a just cause, so it must allow all students to register and lift the suspensions of our SRC members,” said a student who wished to remain anonymous for fear of victimisation.

Another added: “Management is still tracing the students who were involved in the strike.”

The SRC members were suspended following weeks of protests and class disruptions during the #FeesMustFall campaign.

The management later laid charges of inciting violence and damage to property against them.

SRC deputy president Sthembiso ka Shandu said the council was trying to get management to lift the suspensions.

“We [the SRC] are waiting for management to serve us with letters informing us [when] the disciplinary committee sitting [will be],” he said. “But I wish to put on record that I am not remorseful at all, I don’t regret even a single one of my actions,” he said.

De Ruyter said students who wanted to appeal their exclusions would have to provide their student number to security at the gate to gain access to the campus. – Caxton News Service

I don’t regret even a single one of my actions

Sthembiso ka Shandu SRC deputy president