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THE Durban University of Technology (DUT) has temporarily closed down four of its campuses with immediate effect following violent protests last Thursday.
In a media statement, the university said that the Steve Biko, ML Sultan, Ritson and City campuses will be closed after a group of protesters started a violent attack on Thursday afternoon.
Staff based on the closed campuses will be working remotely.
Only essential services staff will remain on campus.
“Despite our appeals to the South African Police Service for assistance, we were unable to prevent the attacks, even though law enforcement was tipped-off yesterday about the planned protest action.”
While other campuses are temporarily closed the university said that the academic programme will continue online.
“Please note that the academic programme will continue online, so lectures are not suspended. We will closely monitor the situation and we will not hesitate to evacuate the residences should we deem it necessary, based on the potential risks on our students, staff and university property.”
The university said the protesters violated the COVID–19 protocols and damaged property.
“The protestors forced their way onto the Steve Biko Campus in Durban, violating the COVID-19 protocols, turning violent, damaging property and traumatizing staff, in a well-orchestrated attack.”
The university said that staff that are affected by the protest can visit DUT wellness office.
“We urge staff to please consult with the Employee Wellness office (ewp@dut.ac.za) at Human Capital Services, if they require professional support and assistance following the traumatic attacks today.”
The university urged the staff and students to check updates on staff email system, student email accounts and on the DUT website www.dut.ac.za.
The university has been plagued by violent protests since the beginning of the year. Students are aggrieved mainly by the online registration process and delays in National Student Financial Aid Scheme funding.
The university reopened three campuses this month after they were closed when three staff vehicles were torched at Steve Biko Campus in February, a number that has since increased to more than 10.
It was granted a court interdict against its entire Students Representative Council and EFF SC members from protesting near any if its campuses.
DUT registrar Dr Maditsane Nkonoane told the portfolio committee on higher education, science and innovation that they had spent close to R1m on security due to alleged poor police and public order police support since the beginning of the year.
– Inside Education