NMU protest: Here are the students' demands

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Lectures at Nelson Mandela University have been cancelled until further notice after SASCO members embarked on a strike.

[WATCH] Protesting students have barricaded entry into the NMU's South Campus in Port Elizabeth. pic.twitter.com/ZfK1Y7Vul9

— Kwanele Mketeni (@KwaneleMketeni) March 7, 2019

The organisation says in a brief statement that the University is already starting with tests and first assignments whilst many students have still not registered.

These students are reportedly squatting on campus sleeping in public spaces.

According to the organisation female students are sleeping in the TV room of the male residence, which is a concern due to the high number of rape cases and gender-based violence.

Students have made the following demands:

• All students must be allowed to register
• All students who receive free registration must also receive a residence status
• Postgraduates, who are continuing their studies, should continue to receive funding
• All students who perform poorly in their first assessments, "as a result of these issues" should be given a second chance.

SASCO says they will not continue with any classes until all their issues are resolved.

They have called on all students, even those not affected, to join them in their right to protest.

The University obtained a final interdict from the High Court on 19 June 2018. The main purpose of the interdict is to protect the rights and safety of those who wish to access the University to work or pursue their studies, whilst also allowing for the right to protest in accordance with the conditions set out in the interdict.

These include protesting students to conduct themselves in a manner that does not:

• interfere with, obstruct or disrupt university and academic activity;
• damage property;
• contravene University rules;
• intimidate other students or staff.