The murder of a Nelson Mandela University (NMU) student at an off-campus residence in Summerstrand earlier this month has raised renewed safety concerns amongst students.
According to police, a knife-wielding suspect entered the student residence in Admiralty Way, Summerstrand, on Monday, 13 October. The suspect attacked two women, resulting in the death of a 23-year-old student and serious injuries to a 20-year-old, before fleeing with a laptop and two mobile phones.
Women For Change, a non-profit organisation advocating against gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide, has since identified the victim as Minenhle Sbusisiwe Happiness Hlongwane (23).
“We are heartbroken by the loss of yet another beautiful soul,” a statement by Women For Change read on social media. “How many more lives must be taken before GBV and femicide are finally declared a national disaster?”
Meanwhile, in a letter addressed to NMU Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Learning and Teaching, Dr Muki Moeng, last week, the Student Representative Council (SRC) expressed safety concerns and fears amongst students.
“I’m writing to bring to your attention the alarming rate of crime in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), which is causing significant distress and concern among students,” wrote Lathitha Mbuzwana, SRC chairperson.
“The escalating violence and insecurity are affecting students’ ability to attend classes and exams, ultimately impacting their academic performance.”
Due to the fear and trauma NMU students are allegedly experiencing, Mbuzwana requested that exams be postponed or conducted online.
“Given the situation, we kindly request that the upcoming tests and exams be postponed until the institution can ensure a safe environment for students and transition to online mode. This would alleviate some of the pressure and anxiety students are facing.”
Mbuzwana added, “Students are fearful of attending classes and exams due to the high crime rate. Implementing online tests and exams would provide a temporary solution until the safety situation improves.”
Responding to questions, NMU spokesperson, Zandile Ngwendu, confirmed receipt of the letter from concerned students.
“Nelson Mandela University can confirm that the correspondence from the SRC was indeed received by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Learning and Teaching and is receiving the necessary attention,” she commented. “Engagements between the relevant university officials and the SRC are ongoing to deliberate on the issues raised and explore sustainable ways forward.
“The university takes any concerns raised by or on behalf of its students very seriously and is committed to engaging constructively on matters affecting their safety and well-being.”
