DASO INTERVENTION IN FORT HARE

DASO is deeply concerned about the outbreak of violence at the University of Fort Hare (see Daily Dispatch report).

The 90% increase in residence fees is unacceptable as most of the students are from poor family backgrounds.

DASO also objects to the shocking living conditions of the students. Four students cannot be expected to share a room, which has been originally created for two students.

DASO is further outraged that students have been instructed to vacate the residences by 5 pm this evening. This is unacceptable, considering that some of these students are international students with nowhere else to go.

At my request, the DA Shadow Minister of Higher Education, Prof. Annelie Lotriet has asked the Director General to contact the Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Mvuyo Tom as a matter of urgency to intervene in the matter.

DASO will also be circulating a petition, in an effort to get Dr. Blade Nzimande to speedily intervene.

We call on the Minister of Higher Education, Dr. Blade Nzimande to urgently intervene, as this disruption in education and inhumane living conditions cannot be allowed to prevail.

Statement issued by Athol Trollip, DA Eastern Cape provincial leader, February 12 2013

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