UJ gets interdict to prevent disruptions after arson

The University of Johannesburg has obtained a court interdict barring disruptions at its campuses after an arson attack on its main auditorium.

Johannesburg – The University of Johannesburg said on Tuesday it has obtained a court interdict barring disruptions at its campuses after an arson attack on its main auditorium.

Senior director in the office of Vice-Chancellor Ilhron Rensburg, Tumi Mketi said students’ rights to organise and participate in lawful activities were not taken away by the court interdict.

“Student organisations are promoted and shall be protected at the university, and the court order recognises this. However, protests or demonstrations which are not conducted in terms of the students’ regulations may not be held on campuses or within 100 metres of the entrance or boundary of the university’s property, and neither may meetings for the purpose of inciting, encouraging or instigating any protest action or demonstration at or on university premises,” said Mketi.

The court order was obtained on Monday to ensure the safety of students, staff and property, she said.

The institution said the burning of the 1,000-seater auditorium on Monday caused damage estimated at R100-million.

The perpetrators broke into the venue at Kingsway campus, and destroyed computer laboratories, including equipment used to conduct career assessment and guidance for students and prospective students.

Alternative arrangements were under way to accommodate events that were scheduled to take place at the auditorium, such as midyear examinations and graduation ceremonies next month.

“The interdict applies to everyone, including students and staff participating in, inciting, encouraging or facilitating protests or demonstrations on its campuses,” Mketi said.

“Property covered by the order encompass all UJ premises, residences, libraries, lecture venues, laboratories and any other buildings, including off-campus accommodation.”

Africa News Agency