Question NW837 to the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
22 March 2023 - NW837
Zondo, Mr S S to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
What steps is his department taking in respect of the safety of university leadership, following reports that the Vice-Chancellor of the Durban University of Technology, Professor T Z Mthembu, is now being protected by bodyguards after a security threat, making the specified person the second university head after the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Fort Hare, Professor Sakhela Buhlungu, to engage security guards while other institutions, such as North-West University and University of Johannesburg, offer security services to staff and students?
Reply:
The Department expressed its outrage at the callous conduct of criminals. The Department invited all heads of security to a workshop to understand common threats and risks, and resolved to meet every quarter with them, and develop a security framework for a national security policy for universities as well as norms and standards applicable to the PSET sector. The Department also consulted them on the possible terms of reference that would guide the work of the national task force as envisaged by the Minister. The Department asked all Vice-Chancellors to share security costs to understand the extent of the threat they confront, and establish what they are charged, and if they are charged fair prices for such services. The Department also supports the work of the SIU which will also expose other layers of risk around the Vice-Chancellors and has consulted the security sector extensively on evolving risks in the university and TVET sector.