University of Johannesburg (UJ) students have called for increased police visibility and stronger security measures in communities surrounding the institution, saying they should feel safe both on and off campus.

Members of student organisations, including the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), marched to Brixton Police Station on September 17 to submit a memorandum outlining their demands.

According to UJ EFF chairperson Lwazi Sithole, students are also members of the broader community and should not have to rely solely on campus protection services, but also on the police. Sithole said students were increasingly concerned about their safety in areas where many UJ learners live, including Auckland Park, Brixton, and Westdene.

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UJ student Siyamthanda Zikalala said authorities must ensure students can travel between their residences, homes, and campus without fear.

“We are here to demand more safety,” said Zikalala. “We are here to ensure that every student who leaves their residence or leaves their home is safe and returns back home.”

Students demand patrols and raids

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Among the students’ demands is increased police visibility and regular patrols around areas frequented by UJ learners.

Zikalala said police should conduct targeted operations and patrols around the university and surrounding communities, adding that simple measures like raids in Brixton and Auckland Park would make a significant difference to student safety.

Zikalala added that campus security remained important because learners and institutions could not predict where the next incident might occur.

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WATCH: UJ EFF chairperson Lwazi Sithole speaks at the student march for safety at Brixton SAPS. Video: Waydon Jacobs #Northcliff #UJ #EFF #Brixton #SAPS

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The demonstration also featured the release of purple balloons as a symbolic gesture of solidarity with women affected by gender-based violence. Organisers said the gesture was intended to remind survivors and victims’ families that they are not alone, while honoring women who have lost their lives.

Brixton SAPS received the memorandum detailing the students’ concerns. Police confirmed receipt of media inquiries and indicated they would respond by September 21.

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