WSU EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP ENGAGES STUDENT LEADERS TO RESTORE STABILITY AT MTHATHA CAMPUS

Walter Sisulu University’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rushiella Songca, led a powerful and heartfelt engagement with the SRC, political student structures, and broader student leadership at the Mthatha Campus on Wednesday, 11 June 2025.

Prof. Songca was joined by members of the Executive Management Committee (EMC), along with Executive Deans and Deputy Deans, in a united and urgent effort to bring peace, understanding, and stability back to the campus following weeks of protest and disruption.

The meeting created a safe and open space for student leaders to speak honestly about the many challenges they face — from residence conditions, academic pressures, and student support services, to the emotional toll of recent events.

University leadership responded with transparency and a clear commitment to practical, long-term solutions.

At the centre of the dialogue was the tragic case involving a shooting incident which left two students injured and one fatally wounded in April — an incident that deeply shocked the campus and fuelled student unrest.

Management provided an update on the legal and institutional processes currently underway, reaffirming that due process is being followed.

In response to rumours surrounding a letter written to Mr Mampana, Prof. Songca offered a strong and honest clarification: the letter was never meant to interfere with court proceedings, and the university remains firmly committed to the Constitution and the independence of the judiciary. “WSU respects the rule of law,” she stated.

She also confirmed that the university extended support to the late Sisonke’s family, done quietly and respectfully in line with African cultural values. “It is African to assist with dignity, not for display,” said Prof. Songca, calling on the campus community to reject misinformation and come together in healing and unity.

Prof. Songca spoke openly and emotionally, reminding students that despite perceptions, the university cares deeply about their wellbeing. “It’s a pity students think we don’t care, and I am going to make a plea — let’s try not to hold on to anger,” she said.

She stressed the importance of give-and-take, urging students and staff to walk the path forward together.

Student leaders also raised the need for a Protest Management Policy, which would guide both staff and students on how to handle protests in a respectful, safe, and legally sound way.

The university confirmed that this policy is being developed as per recommendations by the Human Rights Commission, and once finalised, it will go back to the Commission for review.

WSU Executive Director for Student Affairs, Dr Irene Mohasoa, welcomed the engagement, saying it offered students the chance to “vent, reflect, and debrief.”

She also highlighted that her department has been in constant contact with students throughout the year, but that the involvement of the EMC gave the session more weight.

“This is what the students have been calling for — visible leadership and shared solutions,” she said.

Dr Mohasoa also supported the call for monthly student-management meetings and underlined the need for consistent communication going forward.

Student leaders welcomed the tone and outcomes of the session. Mthatha Campus SRC Premier, Themba Zikhali, described the engagement as “fruitful” and called for more regular discussions between students and management.

“We believe this will bring stability and allow us to return to academic excellence,” he said.

As part of its broader efforts to support students, the university is continuing with emotional and psychological counselling, making regular hospital visits to affected students, and providing academic catch-up interventions for those still recovering.

These efforts reflect the university’s compassion and commitment to walking the journey of recovery with its students.

The session ended on a constructive note, with clear agreements to: Finalise and implement a fair and transparent Protest Management Policy; Hold regular student-management engagements; Restore focus on academic excellence and stability through shared responsibility and mutual respect.

This engagement is part of a week-long series of meetings led by the VC and her management, including sessions with unions, staff, and students — all aimed at restoring trust, unity, and academic focus at the Mthatha Campus.

By: Yolanda Palezweni