VANDERBIJLPARK.- North West University (NWU, Vaal) Professor Vice-Chancellor, Linda du Plessis and NWU Vaal Executive Director of Student Affairs, Dr Chalukya’s had their hands full as they attempted to calm down angry students recently. The students were demanding that classes be suspended until their demands that National Students Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) pay for all students unconditionally are met. They said that more than 20 000 students are frustrated, languishing in the streets because their fees have not been paid. The students picketed outside the NWU Vaal gates on Friday and Monday. Siya Hlophe, NWU Vaal SRC Chairperson, said that they have been frustrated by the management of the university delaying registration of 20 000 students in the different NWU institutions. “Management cannot say this is life as usual as if nothing has happened. The institution is expecting first year students to register ignoring the plight of the second-year students. We are calling on the office of the Minister of Higher Education, Blade Ndzimande to come on board to address the matter. Classes should stop with immediate effect until our demands are met. We are aware that some faculties have started with lessons but we are not going to allow students to submit their works,” said Hlope. Professor Du Plessis addressed the students before receiving their memorandum of demands on Friday. She said they have decided to postpone exams and that they do not want students to be negatively affected. She promised to assist students with their registrations. “NWU is trying to communicate with NSFAS to see how best they can assist to sort out this crisis as we don’t want students to drop out.” The police kept a low profile making sure the Covid-19 regulations are adhered to.
NWU students boycott classes
“Management cannot say this is life as usual as if nothing has happened."
