THE University of KwaZulu-Natal has spoken up against the criminal behaviour by protesting students since Monday, 27 January, this week.
A security control centre at the Westville campus was set alight during a student protest in the early hours of this morning in what the university describes as a ‘a grave act of arson’.
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According to the university, the incident was compounded by a power outage experienced throughout the campus since yesterday afternoon.
Power has since been restored on the campus.
“The university strongly denounces the criminality. In as much as we respect the students right to protest, there is no excuse for any act of violence and damage/destruction of valuable university resources and property,” said Executive Director in Corporate Relations, Ashton Bodrick.
All incidents of assault, destruction of property and arson are being investigated by University RMS and SAPS.
“Perpetrators found engaging in criminal behaviour will be arrested and apprehended. Security has been further bolstered and every effort is being made to ensure that the Academic Programme proceeds as scheduled with no interruptions. It is imperative that we continue, as any loss of time will impact negatively on the academic calendar.
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“To the protesting students, I appeal to you to stop the violence and allow space for consultation to take place. We have heard the student grievances raised and are actively seeking solutions to the current impasse at both an institutional and national level,” said Bodrick.
Bodrik further assured the university community that every effort is being made to stop further protest action and restore calm.
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