02 September 2014 COMMUNIQUÉ FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: CORPORATE RELATIONS STUDENT PROTEST AT THE WESTVILLE AND EDGEWOOD CAMPUSES Two campuses were disrupted this morning following protest action by students on the Westville and Edgewood campuses. Approximately 200 individuals embarked on illegal protest action at the Westville campus this morning. The protestors disrupted lectures and caused damage to property. A number of vehicles were stoned and some facilities were set alight. Some protestors obstructed the main University Road entrance, burning tyres. Two individuals have been arrested by South African Police Services (SAPS). It is of grave concern that a small group of students is continuing to embark on illegal, destructive and violent protest action. Management condemns the destruction to property and the threats and intimidation of both student and staff. Around 60 individuals protested at the Edgewood campus this morning. The students attempted to block the campus entrance. Security managed to disperse the protestors. SAPS and the University’s Risk Management Services (RMS) are addressing and monitoring the situation. We will continue to provide security to our registered students who have a right to study in a conducive academic environment and staff who need to carry out their responsibilities. The University has obtained a High Court Order protecting the University against unlawful protests, disruptive gatherings, demonstrations, mass action, intimidation or any violent act to persons or property at the entrance and premises of the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s campuses. We wish to reiterate that the University reserves the right to take appropriate action on any student or person who is in breach of the Order. Offenders will be charged for contempt of court and the University will not be in a position to withdraw any charges. Students are urged to allow the ongoing process of engagement to take place, and not to engage in any illegal action. MATTERS RAISED BY STUDENTS: Management received a Memorandum from the Westville Student Representative Council (SRC) on Friday, 29 August, following which there has been extensive consultation with Student Leadership. Following an initial meeting with both the Westville and the Central SRC, SRC members from the four other campuses later joined the meeting. Issues discussed included the following: Financial Aid, the Draft Loans and Bursary policy and Funding for Postgraduate Students: The various processes, including the policy serving at the Student Services Council where students are represented, were explained to Student leaders. It was further explained that the draft policy was still in the consultative stage and therefore students can still provide their input. A process has been set in place to facilitate student input. Information on funding for postgraduate students was provided to student leaders, including the fact that UKZN provides an allocation for Honours students through the Special Honours Scholarship Funding, and the Masters Fee remission. The Colleges also provide funding for postgraduate students through the College Strategic Funds and NRF Grant Holders (academics/researchers) in the form of postgraduate bursaries. Initiatives that are currently being engaged, such as the loan facility linked to a bank, through which postgraduate students can also receive assistance, were also discussed. Security and the Registration Closing Date: The Registrar addressed students on matters relating to Security and on the Registration Closing date. Students were provided with the full contextual background to both issues, and a way forward was explicated. In respect of the Registration Closing Date, student leaders were reminded that the date of the 6th of February was the decision of Senate and therefore any issues around the date would have to be engaged with Senate. The Registrar further provided guidance in terms of how the engagement with Senate could be undertaken. Registration Appeals Committee: Student Leaders were reminded that RAC matters raised in the Memorandum had been discussed with their representatives and resolutions, which were favourable to students, had already been reached. A meeting was scheduled for the morning of 2 September, in order to discuss the Registration Fee Increment, Student Fees and matters regarding Residences. Management thanks all students and staff for their patience during this time. We reassure all students that every effort will be made to ensure that the campus is conducive to academic teaching and learning. Students are assured that lectures are continuing on all five campuses of the University. Issued by Lesiba Seshoka Executive Director: Corporate Relations
Posted on: Wed, 03 Sep 2014 07:01:42 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015