The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Nompendulo Mkhatshwa, has strongly condemned the shooting of a student during a protest at Walter Sisulu University (WSU). The incident occurred amid student demonstrations linked to ongoing challenges around registration, accommodation, and funding.
In a statement released by Parliament, Mkhatshwa described the event as “deeply concerning” and called on authorities to investigate the circumstances that led to the shooting. She emphasized that students have the constitutional right to protest peacefully without fear of violence or intimidation.
“The use of live ammunition or excessive force during student protests is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms,” Mkhatshwa said.
The committee expressed its sympathies to the injured student and reiterated the importance of dialogue between university management, students, and government departments to resolve recurring issues in the higher education sector.
Mkhatshwa further urged law enforcement agencies to respect students’ rights and apply restraint during protest interventions. At the same time, she called on students to maintain discipline and adhere to lawful conduct during demonstrations.
The Portfolio Committee has committed to engaging with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), as well as WSU management, to get a detailed report on the incident and ensure that justice is served.
The shooting has reignited national debates about the policing of student protests and the ongoing struggle many students face in accessing quality and affordable education.
