Tensions ran high at Nelson Mandela University today, on the first day of the academic year, as students engaged in a dangerous protest, blocking entrances to the North and South campuses with burning tyres and disrupting classes.
Terrified students, who were chased out of classes with sticks, struggled to vacate the campus due to the protestors.
Zandile Mbabela, spokesperson for the institution, confirmed that the protest stems from issues related to financial aid, accommodation, registration, and shuttle services.
“Relevant departments at the University have been working around the clock to address these issues, some of which are beyond the institution’s direct control,” Mbabela stated.
Despite the unrest, she mentioned that entrances at Strandfontein and Marine Drive remain open, allowing academic and other operations to proceed. Protection Services staff are actively working to disperse the protestors and clear blocked entrances.
“Efforts to resolve the situation involve ongoing engagements between the Student Representative Council and University Management. University authorities assure that more detailed updates will follow throughout the day as they work towards a resolution,” Mbabela concluded.
Meanwhile, nervous parents and students fear for their safety, claiming that clear communication has been lacking during this ordeal.
