Media Statement by Prof Nqabomzi Gawe, Acting Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellor: Institutional Support and Official Spokesperson of the Durban University of Technology (DUT)

In an address to the Student Representative Council (SRC) and students at the Fred Crookes Sport Centre at DUT this morning, Management urged students to return to classes so that all academic activities may resume with immediate effect, without further disruptions. An independent Task Team has been appointed by the Minister of Higher Education and Training, to investigate student concerns and make recommendation to the university. We are calling for all students to respect this process.

The Task Team will also be looking into the housing concerns raised by students, in depth. The Food Committee will be conducting routine quality checks and will address concerns raised, relating to the pricing and quality of food on all campuses. Management has further agreed to grant student book allowances in cash to all NSFAS students who qualify for this benefit. Management is currently working on a fast and efficient way together with the Finance Department to issue the funds to students.

A DUT Management delegation is currently on their way to address students at the Midlands Campus, Pietermaritzburg.