THE Democratic Alliance Student Organisation (Daso) has condemned the recent killing of another Walter Sisulu University (WSU) student who was allegedly stabbed to death by his roommate after a “fun” weekend of heavy drinking.
In a statement today, Daso EC constituency leader Hlomela Bucwa said Daso would write to the Higher Education Portfolio Committee, requesting them to conduct oversight at WSU and address the safety concerns of the students.
“We will also visit the university in the next few days to discuss the issues of violence on campus and student safety with the management and the student leadership,” Bucwa said.
Aphelele Ntobongwana, an electrical engineering student from Libode, was stabbed on Sunday afternoon at the male residence Destiny Two. This comes only three months after Lwando Mantshontsho was assaulted and killed on the Mthatha Campus.
[pullquote]In recent years, over six students have been killed on WSU campuses, with alcohol reportedly playing a major role in the violence.[/pullquote]
“We strongly condemn these criminal acts and call on the university and the South African Police Services (SAPS) to prosecute the student responsible for this,” Bucwa said.
In recent years, over six students have been killed on WSU campuses, with alcohol reportedly playing a major role in the violence.
“We believe that our campuses should remain safe spaces of living and learning with all students feeling secured,” Bucwa said.
“Violence on our campuses is not only an issue at WSU, but across institutions all over the country.”
Bucwa said Daso continues to call on the management of all institutions together with the Department of Higher Education to prioritise and address safety issues on campuses by:
- deploying well-trained and qualified security personnel;
- installing monitored CCTV cameras; and most importantly; and
- strictly regulating the use of alcohol on our campuses and promoting responsible use.
“We send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the student whose life has been cut short. We further call for calm and peace among students on campus in this difficult time.”