/ 17 September 2009

Wits interdict leaves Sasco feeling harassed

Sasco felt harassed by the interdict Wits obtained to prevent further protest disruptions, but talks were continuing, a spokesperson said on Thursday.

The South African Students Congress (Sasco) felt harassed by the interdict Wits University obtained to prevent further protest disruptions, but was continuing talks with the institution, a spokesperson said on Thursday.

”It feels as though they are intimidating and harassing students,” said Sasco president Mawethu Rune.

However, Sasco was continuing to try to find agreement on their concern over the upfront payment being increased by R600 to R6 600 and fees being raised by at least 9%.

Sasco was also making progress over increasing the stipend for students on financial aid and a study of how much service providers such as caterers charge.

They would brief students later on how talks were progressing, Rune said.

Earlier, the university obtained an interdict restraining students from disrupting classes, lectures and tutorials, obstructing or preventing movement through the campus, harassing or intimidating staff, students or the public, damaging the property of the university, its staff and students.

”Wits University believes that this step was necessary in order to protect the rights of those staff and students who are committed to teaching and learning,” the university said.

Members of the Wits senior executive team spent most of Wednesday in consultation with representatives of the protesting student group, discussing the points raised in a memorandum handed to management.

Student protests began on Monday. — Sapa