Pretoria - Higher Education and Training Minister Blade Nzimande has called on the management of universities to take decisive action in the face of student protests, which has been tainted by acts of violence and vandalism.
Commenting on recent events at the University of the Free State, University of Pretoria and University of Cape Town, Minister Nzimande said there are elements seeking to destabilise institutions as part of a “perverse political agenda” and attempting to dislodge legitimately elected student, worker and staff structures through illegal activity, violence and destruction of property.
“The department cannot and will not tolerate the destruction of property and threat to lives and requests the South African Police Services to assist with the safeguarding of students, staff, workers and university property.
“We also call upon all progressive forces on our campuses to condemn and distance themselves from these acts of intimidation, violence and vandalism. The primary objective of our universities is teaching, learning and research, and these activities should remain sacrosanct,” said Minister Nzimande.
The Minister acknowledges that university students, staff and workers, like all members of society, have the right to protest and voice their opinions and grievances. However, they have a duty to do so peacefully and in a manner that respects both the rights and property of others.
He urged university management to engage with legitimately and democratically elected structures, and address the concerns and grievances raised by these structures and not be held to ransom by “elements who have no legitimate mandate”.
He also urged students and workers to adhere to the university rules, regulations and applicable protocols in dealing with grievances and matters of concern.
“All our public higher education institutions have structures through which these matters can be resolved, such as the Council, Institutional Forums, Student Representative Council, trade unions and Executive Management.”
Meanwhile, Minister Nzimande said the department will in due course engage stakeholders on processes to take forward the many progressive resolutions from the Higher Education Summit in order to accelerate the much-needed transformation in higher education.
“The department recognises the urgency of addressing the big and enduring questions of transformation raised at this summit and the importance of new and different ways of engaging on university campuses so that transformation debates are characterised by dignity and a recognition of diverse perspectives.”
The department urged all stakeholders in the university sector to work towards building on the progress and gains made in the university sector in preparation for this academic year. – SAnews.gov.za
