Unizulu SRC administrator resigns
Makhoba's position as administrator became a burning issue among students two weeks back, which led to a violent riot at the KwaDlangezwa campus
AFTER a week of turmoil at the University of Zululand (Unizulu), SRC administrator, Bongumusa Makhoba, has resigned from his post last week.
This was revealed by Unizulu management on Tuesday.
‘His safety has been at risk amid ongoing threats. He was attacked in his room and his belongings looted,’ said the university statement.
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Makhoba’s position as administrator became a burning issue among students last week, which led to a violent riot at the KwaDlangezwa campus.
During the protest, students condemned Makhoba’s appointment, but also raised other issues such as the SRC’s budget for postgraduate studies, issues surrounding the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NFSAS) as well as concerns over the safety of students living off campus.
They torched a police vehicle, vandalised other structures and later set alight students’ service department offices.
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The rampage led to the complete shutdown of the campus and students were ordered to vacate their rooms and leave the institution’s grounds.
However, according to a statement by the Dean of Students, all matters raised by the students were discussed with them before the protest.
‘There were numerous discussions with student structures on the support for the office of the SRC administrator. It was explained that the appointment of the administrator is the prerogative of the University Council and not university management.
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‘Regarding the SRC budget for postgraduates, students are at liberty to make proposals to the office of the Dean of Students,’ the statement said.
‘The dean has not received any proposal in this regard and to call for a strike before the dean’s office is given an opportunity to look into the matter, does not make sense.
‘The university has held numerous meetings with community stakeholders aimed at improving security for off-campus students. For all newly accredited student accommodation it is a prerequisite that security be provided,’ said the statement.
Unizulu remains closed until further notice.
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