Update on student protests (2 March 2022 - 14:00)
- Wits University
The University remains open and the academic programme continues as scheduled.
Statement from the Senior Executive Team
We are aware that some lectures on the Braamfontein campuses were disrupted this morning. Small groups moved from venue to venue and disrupted some classes. They also made their way onto Empire Road where they disrupted traffic and surrounding areas. We apologise to staff and students who were inconvenienced by these actions.
The actions of the disruptors transgress the University’s rules pertaining to peaceful protest, and the rights of those who wish to learn and work. We cannot be held to ransom by a small group of disruptors, and we now have no choice but to act firmly against those who contravene the University’s rules. The University remains open and the academic programme continues as scheduled.
Thank you to staff members and students who have submitted video footage, images and statements to Campus Protection Services. This evidence has been handed to the Legal Office with a view to suspending the disruptors in line with the University’s policies and procedures and taking appropriate legal action to ensure that the rights of others are not infringed.
Campus Protection Services is doing its best to keep the disruptors at bay. At this stage, the Yale Road gates have been closed to keep them off-campus. The Yale Road gates will be opened to allow staff and students to leave later. Should you wish to leave now, please exit via Annet Road, Raikes Road, or Sturrock Park.
Please continue to report incidents of disruption and intimidation, or damage to property to Campus Protection Services via mafihla.maleka@wits.ac.za or call (011) 717-4444 or (011) 717-6666.
We remain committed to engagement with the SRC on these systemic issues in the higher education sector.
We will keep you updated during the course of the day.
SENIOR EXECUTIVE TEAM
2 MARCH 2023 (14:00)