DUT to hold virtual lectures amid NSFAS protests

The decision comes amid student protests at the institution last week, disrupting lectures.

Officials says students and lecturers who were not involved in the protests were also threatened.

In a statement, the institution says the move is a safety measure on all campuses. 

"There is no certainty when the current round of protests will end. The disruption of lectures is likely to continue during the SRC pre-election period and the university understands that there is a real threat to safety and security on campus, hence the decision to implement the interim online lectures."

University students took to the streets over challenges they say, in receiving payments since the new NSFAS  payment system was put in place. 

"The main issue raised by the protestors related to direct payments that recipients of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme receive. NSFAS has adopted a direct payment system called eZaga. It must be noted that NSFAS appointed their own supplier to manage the eZaga payments. DUT was not involved in the payment process, nor was it involved in the appointment of the supplier."

DUT says four students have been suspended.

"The university has already identified some of the protestors who had violated its rules and policies. They have since been charged and suspended and they will face a disciplinary hearing. To date, four suspensions have been confirmed. Two hearings are scheduled and another four suspensions are imminent."