Evidence wa ka Ngobeni
Three student leaders at the University of Venda (Univen) may face criminal charges after it emerged they stole tens of thousands of rands from student coffers.
The three student representative council (SRC) officials have been suspended from the organisation pending investigations into abuse of office and fraud.
Univen’s SRC representative confirmed this week that SRC president Mpho Sekomeng, his deputy, Victor Mokgoto, and project officer, Mathodzi Moshoe, have been barred from participating in student activities.
The SRC alleges that the three, who were charged with arranging a fresher’s ball in May, defrauded the university of R77 000. They allegedly made out false orders for stage and sound equipment, and for musicians from a Johannesburg company.
A requisition was made to the SRC for R500 000 to cover the cost of the party.
SRC treasurer Derrick Maluleke said after an investigation it found that the three asked the company to charge a higher price for the equipment and arranged to receive the difference.
Maluleke said the company billed the SRC for R66 000 when the normal price for the equipment used at the party usually amounts to R33 000
Univen normally suspends or expels students found guilty of misconduct. But due to the seriousness of the allegations against the three, Maluleke said the university disciplinary council may recommend that criminal charges be laid. The three have not yet appeared before the disciplinary hearing.
The ball is held annually to welcome new students. Last year the students demanded 30 cans of beer each at the bash. The university had budgeted only R355 000 for the ceremony. Students caused more than R500 000 worth of damage.