OFFICE OF THE VICE-CHANCELLOR AND PRINCIPAL
UNIVEN Condemns Incidents of Break-Ins at Non-Accredited Off-Campus Residences
The University of Venda (UNIVEN) has learned with deep shock and sadness that there were two break-ins at two of the non – accredited Off-Campus residences in the early hours of Tuesday, 25 August 2020. Both incidents happened between 02:00 am and 03:00 am. The first one occurred at residences in Sibasa Unit – C, where students were robbed of their belongings (Cell phones and laptops). One suspect was shot by the police and he was admitted at Tshilidzini hospital. The second incident happened at P-West in Thohoyandou where two (2) female students were raped while they were busy studying, preparing for their exams in their rooms.
UNIVEN condemns these incidents in the strongest possible terms, more especially when it’s happening during the women’s month. Arrangements are underway to provide counselling to the victims. The University is working hard to improve security at both On and Off-Campus University accredited residences. We appeal to all students who are staying at off-campus non-accredited residences to consider taking up rooms that are still available at both on and off-campus University accredited residences.
As the University, we will continue with our endeavours of working together with the South African Police Service, Local traditional structures and Civic organisations in raising awareness and to fight this gender-based violence scourge and crime which is entrenched in the fabric of our societies.
Once again, I wish all our students good luck in their preparation and writing of their first semester examinations that are underway.
Kind regards,
Dr Bernard Nthambeleni
Vice-Chancellor and Principal
25 August 2020
