All students at the Soshanguve campus of the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) have to leave the campus by 10am on Friday, university management said.
TUT spokesperson Willa de Ruyter said: ”The decision of the executive management committee (EMC) follows a week of violent student protest at the campus and students ignoring an ultimatum to return to class.”
She said management had decided to close the campus to safeguard staff and students and to prevent further damage to university property.
”We have repeatedly tried to involve students at the Soshanguve campus and their elected leaders in discussions on issues of concern.”
De Ruyter said despite management efforts, students have resorted to class boycotts, intimidation, vandalism and violence.
”Students’ continued refusal to return to class and to engage management constructively on their issues has left the university with no other option than to close the Soshanguve campus until further notice.”
She said during the past week, the TUT has been inundated with calls from members of the Soshanguve community who complained about the students’ unruly behaviour and the negative impact it had on the community.
”Refusal to comply with this instruction will lead to disciplinary action and forceful removal from campus,” she said. – Sapa