The seven students expelled from the Mafikeng Campus of the North-West University (NWU) have been granted permission to continue with studies and examinations, the university said on Tuesday.
Spokesperson Lester Mpolokeng said the seven students either expelled or suspended from the university would remain provisionally suspended.
”They have sought and been granted permission to attend classes, tests and examinations pending the finalisation of their appeals.”
Sporadic incidents of intimidation and violence were reported on the campus on May 25 and 26.
According to the university, property has been damaged, there have been assaults on campus security and members of the South African Police Service and many staff and students were intimidated by protesters.
”Staff and students have been intimidated by threats of violence and although the campus remains open, very little normal teaching and learning activities have taken place since Thursday.”
Four students were arrested during the protests on Sunday evening.
The unresolved crisis on the NWU campus was indicative of a higher education system in paralysis, the South African Students Congress (Sasco) said on Tuesday.
Sasco president David Maimela said the ongoing crisis was caused by a lack of leadership, vision and clarity by management.
”It is worth noting that, whereas the black Mafikeng campus experiences turmoil, the white Potchefstroom campus enjoys peace and tranquility,” he said.
Among the students expelled was Sasco’s provincial chairperson Mosimanegape Moleme.
The organisation said it demanded his reinstatement ”immediately”.
”The only sin committed by the students in the latest incident is the fact that they acted in solidarity, to demand the return of their student leaders who are currently either suspended or expelled and intimidated.”
On Thursday the president of Sasco will meet with the rector of the Mafikeng campus. – Sapa