The University of the Western Cape (UWC) said it is taking the concerns of protesting students seriously, despite claims that management does not care.
On Thursday, a group of frustrated students protested on campus over poor living conditions at three off-campus residences.
Students said the accommodation has broken showers and toilets, mould on the walls, and faulty stoves and washing machines.
They accuse the university of failing to carry out repairs for more than three years.
ALSO READ:
UWC calls for calm after student protests over residence conditions
UWC students march over poor residence maintenance amid mid-year exams
UWC exams continue despite student protests over poor residence conditions
Exams are expected to continue as planned at the UWC on Friday, despite attempts by protesting students to disrupt exam venues on Thursday.
University management said it recognises the students’ concerns and is calling for calm while efforts to address the issues continue.
UWC spokesperson Gasant Abarder said, “We want to engage with the student bodies; we want to engage with the student leadership because we’ve always enjoyed a good relationship with the SRC [Student Representative Council] and other student bodies. We’re doing all we can in our power to restore things to the way they should be.”
Management added that discussions with student leaders are continuing as the university works to resolve the accommodation problems.
Ntuthuzelo Nene
www.ewn.co.za