Media statement on the resurgence of University strikes and damage to property.
19 February 2016
The Ministry of Higher Education and Training has noted with distress the resurgence of student unrest at various University campuses. Whilst the Ministry notes the issues that are causing the unrest, we are satisfied with the urgency with which Universities’ management are engaging with the issues raised by students.
We reaffirm the Constitutional right of the students to strike and voice their concerns over issues that they feel are not receiving sufficient attention, but we reiterate that such a right to strike goes along with responsibility.
The Ministry is extremely concerned and strongly condemns the burning of the Vice Chancellor’s office and the incineration of artwork paintings, including the fine work by Richard Baholo, the first black Fine Arts Masters graduate of University of Cape Town in 1994. In a similar vein, we condemn the burning of a bus at Wits University on the evening of Wednesday (17th of February 2016).
We strongly condemn the damage to property and disruption of the University programmes taking place at the University of North West. We are further disturbed by the student leadership’s clashes at the University of Pretoria during a scheduled meeting with management to discuss the institution’s language policy.
All of these incidents are unfortunate and regrettable, and must not be allowed to recur. We urge Universities to stamp their authority, act decisively and involve law enforcement agencies to apprehend those behind the damage to property.
Statement issued by Khaye Nkwanyana, Director: Media Liaison Officer, Department of Higher Education and Training, 19 February 2016
