Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande has strongly condemned recent violent murders targeting students at universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges across the country. In a statement, Minister Nzimande expressed his deep concern over the disturbing trend and called on law enforcement agencies to work tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.
He further stated that the violent murders against PSET students, particularly women, are a disgraceful and intolerable act that should be condemned in the strongest possible terms.
According to recent reports, several students have been killed in violent incidents at various universities and TVET colleges in recent weeks, sparking outrage and calls for action from students, parents, and education stakeholders.
Crime At TVET Colleges
The fatal incidents in question include the violent murder of three students from Eastcape Midlands TVET College students at an entertainment venue on Sunday 12 February, the fatal stabbing of a 22-year-old student from Maseko Community College on Tuesday 21 February, as well as the murder of one of three University of Fort Hare female students who were the victims of a robbery near their campus.
Minister Nzimande reiterated his commitment to working with all relevant stakeholders, such as Vice Chancellors and TVET College principles to ensure the safety and security of all students at institutions of higher learning.
So far, a police investigation into the last incident has led to the questioning of one suspect. Nzimande has also urged anyone with information that could assist the police in their investigations to come forward and help rid institutions of higher learning of criminal elements.
University management, staff, and students have been called on to work together to create a safer learning environment and to report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.
“We must recognise that our Post School and Education Sector (PSET) sector is a microsome of our greater society This is demonstrated in the manifestation and some instances of reproduction of social pathologies on our campus such as rape. violent murders, mostly against women” Said Minister Nzimande
While sending his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, Nzimande vowed to continue monitoring the situation and work with law enforcement agencies to prevent further incidents of violence against students.
