UKZN approves proposal on in-sourcing
The University of KwaZulu-Natal is hopeful the approval of a proposal to in-source all legitimate contract workers within security, gardening and cleaning services will bring an end to disruptive protests.
The announcement was made today following a University Council meeting yesterday.
Students joined workers in protests that have been going on for some weeks now at the Howard College and Westville campuses.
They've been demanding that workers be employed directly by UKZN, accusing the companies that have hired them of daylight robbery.
The University's Lesiba Seshoka says they'll be communicating with the relevant service providers on a plan of action on the in-sourcing process.
Meanwhile, the academic programme at the Durban University of Technology has been proceeding smoothly after minor disruptions on Monday.
Students there have listed a number of issues including financial exclusion and access to meal allowances.
At the same time, management at the University of the North West says it's doing all it can to save the current academic semester.
Vice Chancellor Dan Kgwadi and other officials briefed the media today at the Mafikeng campus where two buildings there were set alight on Wednesday.
The campus has been indefinitely closed and students sent home for their own safety.
Deputy Minister of Higher Education Mduduzi Manana was highly critical of those behind the violence.
"We sympathise with the students but students themselves cannot afford to fold their arms any longer. Students must speak out but they don't have to retaliate. We are here to genuinely acquire education. Can we be given the chance," he said.