VENDA – THE University of Venda (Univen) has joined warmhearted South Africans by condemning the recent violent acts of xenophobia currently gripping several parts of the country.
The world has just witnessed a recent wave of xenophobic attacks that has spiraled out of control in the country, with the first incidents observed in the volatile KwaZulu-Natal and later spread throughout Gauteng, the continent’s economic hub.
Univen joined the plea for a ceasefire following strong condemnation from government, civic organisations, political parties, sport federations, religious groupings, cultural sectors, the business fraternity, as well as those in the arts and entertainment industry criticising this hatred on fellow Africans.
Univen vice-chancellor, Prof Peter Mbati, said the personnel and students at the institution were seriously disturbed by the attacks on the “value of our constitution”.
Dozens of concerned people in Limpopo fear a recurrence of the xenophobic attacks the placed South Africa in a bad light ahead of the historic 2010 FIFA World Cup on home soil.
Mbati said the fact that the tertiary institution was situated in the Vhembe district made it a gateway for several Africans who descended into the country via the Beit Bridge border post.
“Given our geographical location, we have attracted many students and experienced staff members with scarce skills from African countries. These fellow Africans have added much-needed impetus to our institution. We therefore owe our existence to Africa holistically,” he added.
The academic institution has vowed to remain a home to all Africans in pursuit of provision of knowledge.
“We will continue to celebrate diversity and call on students and staff to embrace all Africans and live with them in peace. Let us all live in the dream of Kwame Nkrumah of Africa as one continent, one nation by showing tolerance, love and respect to fellow Africans,” he said.
