Campus is ‘hell on earth’

FOR most students, their university years are the most memorable period of their lives, carrying the fond memories until old age.

But for first-year university student, Amahle (23)*, life is an endless cycle of terrible living conditions and mental and physical abuse.

This young woman passed her matric with flying colours three years ago, but owing to financial constraints couldn’t attend university soon after.

For two years she worked at a local butchery and saved enough money to enroll for business studies this year. ‘To be the first in my family to enter university meant the world to me. I have never been so excited. ‘All I wanted was to study hard, get my degree and go back home to give them a good life,’ said Amahle. However, as soon as she started her classes the journey to a good life took a horrible turn.

For no apparent reason she was mistreated and tormented by her classmates only a week after starting classes in February.

‘My inquisitive nature seemed to offend my classmates. Every time I would raise a hand to ask for clarity or pose a question to a lecturer, I was met with snide comments. ‘Some started giving me the silent treatment, telling me I should stop acting like I am better than everyone else.

‘I didn’t understand this hostility as all I wanted to do was to get more information to ensure I pass my courses.’

Since the beginning of the academic year Amahle has been top of her class, obtaining A grades in all her modules.

But this only intensified her already miserable situation.

‘They started a rumour that I was sleeping with my male lecturers. Some even posted such statements on social media to embarrass me.

‘I am being tormented and ridiculed every day on campus, and live in fear that one day they will do something worse.

‘One of my lecturer’s wives even arrived on campus to confront me about the rumours and called me a homewrecker who is sleeping with her husband for marks.

‘I pass my models because I focus and don’t spend my time partying like other students. I know why I came to university - to get an education.

‘All I want to do is study hard and make my family proud,’ said Amahle.

This brave young woman is now seeking professional help to help her cope with her daily challenges.

‘I don’t want to become one of those students who end their lives at university because they can’t cope. I want people to help me so that I face these issues and make sure in a couple of years I take home my degree.’

The Zululand Observer has since referred her to a local crisis and counselling support group, LifeLine Zululand.

* Not her real name.