You are in : Education > Universities

UJ Stampede

Eye-witness explains UJ’s stampede

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:22

While the country continues to mourn the tragic death of Gloria Sekwena caused by a stampede at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), Edwin Mashaba believes that her death was no accident but the direct result of a greedy and careless university.

In a letter to The Times Mashaba spells out the events preceding the death of Gloria Sekwena and provides an eye-witness account of the unforgettable day. He explains why the university should be held accountable for the loss of life.

One of the most damming facts brought to light includes a claim that UJ’s non-refundable application fee increased from R250 to R350 in 2011. Mashaba says the university received R2-million in two days from more than 7000 late applicants after sending out an sms encouraging students to apply. The unusually high number of late applicants contributed to the overcrowded university entrance on the morning of the stampede.

Mashaba says the poor levels of security and control displayed during the admission process this year should not be seen as an isolated event as it has been the status quo for the past four years.

For more details read Edwin Mashaba’s letter.

By Cindy Payle