The violence that has engulfed several institutions of higher learning cannot be stopped by university vice-chancellors alone, according to professor Adam Habib.
The vice-chancellor of Wits University was responding to the discovery of petrol bombs on the Wits campus over the weekend. He spoke against the backdrop of the violent student protests over free education that has rocked campuses over recent days.
Speaking to The Citizen yesterday, Habib said the violent protests were unacceptable and needed all members of society’s immediate intervention.
“[It] has to be stopped by parents, students, churches and political parties. [They have] to say the destruction of our universities cannot happen under our watch.
“The petrol bombs that were discovered at Wits also shows the great need for universities to deploy private security officers because, for some time now, people have destroyed and burnt university property and no one has been arrested,” said Habib.
“The petrol bombs that were discovered at Wits also shows the great need for universities to deploy private security officers because, for some time now, people have destroyed and burnt university property and no one has been arrested,” said Habib.
He stressed that violent protests at universities could not be left unattended and warned that institutions of higher learning could be destroyed. Asked for comment on a statement attributed to ANC secretary-general Gwede Mantashe about universities being shut down for a period of six months, Habib said the remarks were irresponsible.
“There is no logic in shutting down universities,” said Habib. “Such a move would have dire consequences, as thousands of graduates will not be produced.”
Meanwhile, Gauteng police confirmed that three petrol bombs were found at Wits University on Saturday.
“There is no logic in shutting down universities,” said Habib. “Such a move would have dire consequences, as thousands of graduates will not be produced.”
Meanwhile, Gauteng police confirmed that three petrol bombs were found at Wits University on Saturday.
