Authorities at the University of Zululand have threatened to close the institution if protesting students did not return to class on Monday, a spokesperson said.
”All students have been requested to go back to class immediately. Failure to comply … by 3pm, the university will be closed by 4pm today [Monday],” said Mike Khuboni, the university spokesperson.
”All students will be expected to vacate their rooms. No trespassers will be allowed in by 5pm today,” he said in a statement.
Khuboni said students would be readmitted on submitting a declaration to abide by the university rules and regulations, counter-signed by a parent or guardian.
”All students involved in criminal activities shall be dealt with accordingly,” he said.
Last week, students handed over a memorandum to Rachel Gumbi, the university’s rector, protesting against a lack of accommodation. The students also complained about many of the university’s courses ”not being nationally recognised”.
Also last week, the South African Democratic Students Movement (Sadesmo), a student body aligned to the Inkatha Freedom Party, promised a boycott of lectures.
However, Khuboni said then that there was no disruption to lectures.
Khuboni said the protest might have been prompted by students who were not employed after completing their studies.
Sadesmo members staged a peaceful protest on the campus on Thursday.
The university announced last year that hostels would be built after it received a loan from the Development Bank of South Africa.
On Monday, the university issued a circular urging students to return to class by 11am.
”It is with regret that at 1.20pm, the students have not taken heed in that request. After issuing this circular, disruption of property have been reported,” Khuboni said. — Sapa