Protest disrupts KZN lectures

Independent Newspapers

Students are seen at the University of KwaZulu-Natal's Howard College campus. File photo: Gcina Ndwalane

Durban - Lectures at the University of KwaZulu-Natal's Howard College campus were disrupted on Monday by students protesting over accommodation.

“Protesting students on the Howard College Campus have disrupted classes,” university spokeswoman Nomonde Mbadi said.

“We have received reports that some of the protesters are armed with sticks, stones and some are carrying hammers.”

Police spokesman Captain Thulane Zwane said: “We can confirm that there is no serious incident reported at this stage. Approximately 50 students are protesting outside the gate and police are monitoring the situation.”

No damage to property had been reported, nobody had been injured and no arrests had been made.

About 560 students were initially housed in a building in Durban's Albert Park, but were left without lights and water after the landlord allegedly failed to pay the service bill.

They were forced to move out earlier this month. The university put them up at various hotels around the city centre.

Last week, some of the students were forced out of the Coastlands Hotel where an African National Congress local government conference was taking place.

Some were housed in the Down Town Lodge in Durban's Point area. Its owner is currently accused of running a brothel from the premises.

The students are being accommodated at The Pavilion Hotel, Impala Holiday Flats, and Seaside Hotel. They want permanent accommodation.

Mbadi said: “The university strongly condemns any act of violence, intimidation and damage to property. The university has given the accommodation matter high priority and we are hopeful that a permanent solution will be in place, soon.”

Sapa