Question NW640 to the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
15 March 2023 - NW640
Mogale, Mr T to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
What (a) penalties have been imposed on campus security companies that continually use unjustifiable violence on protesting students which in some cases has resulted in the loss of life and/or limb and (b) measures will be put in place to stop such incidents from happening again on campuses?
Reply:
Most universities have safety and security policies in place that outline processes to be followed when dealing with protests and penalties imposed when security officers act contrary to policy prescriptions. In addition, universities deal with cases of breach of policy prescripts through their internal disciplinary processes and procedures. The Department committed to work with USAf and universities to improve the capacity of institutions to maintain peace and keep campuses safe and secure. It is also working very closely with SAPS and CAMPROSA in ensuring that recruitment and training of security officers is standardized through the development of a blueprint.