WATCH: Message to Qwaqwa Campus students from Executive Director for Student Affairs, Temba Hlasho
The frequency of the disruptive student protests that have occurred on the Qwaqwa Campus throughout the year has severely impacted the academic calendar, and has far-reaching consequences for students, Executive Director for Student Affairs, Temba Hlasho, warned.
Hlasho said as we draw nearer to the end of the first semester, the protests have placed a huge risk on the completion of the academic programme for students. Since the beginning of the academic year, several violent protests have marred the effective completion of academic activities, posing dire implications for faculties, especially the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences.
“Students participating in student protests should realise that they are compromising their qualifications,” he said.
Furthermore, Hlasho said NSFAS-funded students could have their funding for 2023 revoked if they did not meet the academic requirements. “You run the risk of not receiving funding to continue your studies in 2023 if you do not complete the academic year.”
The Qwaqwa Campus management has also appealed to students to keep the doors of learning open as we approach the exam season. Campus Principal, Dr Martin Mandew, said students should guard against losing a year of studies and should focus on what they need to achieve. “You have to craft your own future, nobody else will do that for you. A university degree is part of the tools you need to do this. Use this opportunity to focus on your studies, because this is your chance, and you might not get another one. The university will do its best to support you in achieving your dreams. This is your opportunity and time, use it wisely.”