THE situation across the UKZN campuses remains calm and is being monitored closely to safeguard the university community, property and the academic programme.

This follows the disruption of lectures and acts of violence at its Westville Campus yesterday, Monday, October 12.

It was reported that the protest followed student elections on October 8 and 9, in which the SA Students Congress (SASCO) emerged as the dominant organisation across the university’s five campuses.

Executive Director of the Corporate Relations Division at the UKZN, Dr Normah Zondo, said this act of violence  left three Risk Management Services (RMS) staff members injured.

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According to Zondo, at approximately 10:30 on Monday, a group of individuals reportedly disrupted classes on the campus. 

“RMS personnel responded in an attempt to defuse the situation but were met with hostility from those involved. A scuffle subsequently broke out, resulting in injuries to three staff members.”

She said at least one of the alleged instigators has been identified as a person who is not registered as a UKZN student. 

“The University will not speculate on the reasons behind the disruptions but noted that the incident comes just a few days after UKZN successfully conducted its Student Representative Council (SRC) elections, with the results announced on Friday night.

“UKZN condemns all forms of violence, intimidation and the disruption of academic activities. The University also rejects any attempt to undermine the outcomes of democratic processes through violence.”

Zondo added that UKZN remains committed to engaging with students who have genuine grievances and provides avenues for raising and addressing concerns. However, she emphasised that grievances must be pursued through constructive engagement and established institutional processes. 

“Violence, intimidation and the disruption of teaching and learning are unacceptable and will not be tolerated. The University will lay criminal charges against the individuals allegedly responsible for the violence and may also, where applicable, institute internal disciplinary proceedings in accordance with its statutes, policies and procedures.”

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