CATO MANOR – Pictures of the aftermath of the torch law library at UKZN have been doing their rounds on the internet, with scores of community members lamenting the actions of the protestors last night.
At around 5.30pm, the library at the iconic Howard College building was allegedly set alight by disgruntled students who are believed to be protesting over fees, demanding a zero increase. However, it is believed that only a minority of those protesting against the fees have turned violent and are also demanding that the Student Representative Council members be recognised on senior management commitees.
The University has yet to address the issue, but is determined to not drop charges against student who destroyed property.
The official statement from the university read:
“In light of the ongoing student protest action at UKZN, Management has taken a decision to bring forward the September recess period. The University will be closed from Wednesday, the 7th until the19th of September 2016. The Academic Programme will resume on the 20th of September 2016.
The Howard College, Westville and Pietermaritzburg campuses experienced violent student protest action today, 06 September 2016.
Students set fire to some University property, security guard huts, bins and furniture. The protest action escalated with groups of students having engaged in acts of violence against security officials. South African Police Service, University Risk Management Services and Public Order Policing dispersed the crowds using rubber bullets and teargas.
UKZN has a High Court interdict in place protecting the University against unlawful protests, disruptive gatherings, demonstrations, mass action, intimidation or any violent act to persons or property at the entrance and premises of University campuses.
A number of students found to be engaging in illegal and destructive activity were apprehended and are now in police custody.
Students are requested to follow established protocols and raise any issue of concern with their respective SRC representatives.”
