The Ministry Condemns in strongest terms the Disruptions in University of Western Cape.

The Ministry condemns in strongest terms the disruptions of examinations in University of Western Cape yesterday by a group of students calling themselves #FeesMustFall movement. Since yesterday, the Ministry has been in contact with the University and monitoring the situation.

The act of this grouping constitute a criminal act that law enforcement agencies must continue to play a role. We continue to affirm the right of students to protest if they so wish, but that right is accompanied by a responsibility not to violate other people’s right and damage to property.  

It is regrettable that students writing their examinations had to be disrupted in the manner that it occurred. This disruption undermines positive strides between University and students after the recent agreement arising out of negotiations where students scored a lot of victories.

We insist that in cases where such disruptive and criminal acts are occurring, management must involve police and act decisively.

Statement issued by Khaye Nkwanyana, Director: Media Liaison Officer, Department of Higher Education and Training, 12 November 2015