Education activist Hendrick Makaneta has called on police to act swiftly by arresting students who prevent university employees from accessing Sefako Makgatho University.
Makaneta says the university cannot be held at ransom by ill-disciplined students who cannot understand that their rights are limited in terms of section 36 of the Constitution of the RSA,1996.
“The rights of protesting students end where the rights of students not protesting begin. No student or employee should be prevented from accessing campus,” said Makaneta.
Moreover, he urged the management of SMU to stand very firm and maintain discipline at all levels.
“The university cannot be bullied by students who have a hidden agenda to promote residences that do not comply with the minimum norms and standards set by the Department of Higher Education and Training,” he added.
Makaneta said that they have seen students trying to barricade university entrances leading to scuffles with security personnel.
He says it should be clear at this point that Sefako Makgatho University under the capable and value-based leadership of Professor Peter Mbati has done everything possible to give students an opportunity to air their views.
“The open-door policy by Prof Mbati’s administration speaks volumes. It shows that the university has always been ready to listen to students at any time.
“Students had an opportunity to engage the university through discussions. It cannot be correct that when students have run out of rational argument, the resort to violent behaviour,” Makaneta said.
According to the statement released, the university is within its rights to look after the general well-being of all students by ensuring that students stay in residences that comply with the minimum norms and standards set by the Department of Higher Education and Training.
“Protesting students should just call off their strike and go back to class to finish the remaining part of the academic year,” concluded Makaneta.
