Violent Student Protests Grip University of Venda Over NSFAS Payment System

Violent Student Protests Grip University of Venda Over NSFAS Payment System. Student demonstrations at the University of Venda in Thohoyandou, Limpopo, have persisted into their third consecutive day, characterized by incidents of violence that have disrupted both campus and off-campus activities.

Continued Unrest at University of Venda

Protests led by students at the University of Venda in Limpopo have extended into their third day, marked by an unsettling incident on Tuesday, September 12th, where a makeshift petrol bomb was hurled at a police nyala in Thohoyandou. These disturbances have arisen primarily in response to grievances concerning the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and other related issues.

Key Demands and Concerns

Students have been mobilizing their discontent since Sunday evening, emphasizing demands such as the timely disbursement of food and transport allowances by the NSFAS and the provision of 24-hour access to the campus library.

Widespread Dissatisfaction with NSFAS

These protests align with growing frustration on various campuses regarding the management of NSFAS funds, particularly concerning the new payment system that beneficiaries argue comes with excessive fees.

Escalation of Violence

On Tuesday, Daily Maverick reported from outside the university campus as students resorted to burning tires, hurling stones, and launching petrol bombs at law enforcement officers. Notably, they outnumbered the public order police officers present and targeted a police nyala with a petrol bomb, which was promptly extinguished by officers.

Political Affiliations and Anonymity

It is worth noting that during Monday’s protests, some students, identifiable by their clothing in the colors of the EFF (Economic Freedom Fighters) and ANC (African National Congress), were captured on cellphone footage damaging road signs. These individuals concealed their identities by covering their faces.