GARANKUWA - Medical students at Sefako Makgatho University are exposing unsanitary conditions in their residences.
Once hailed as South Africa’s only dedicated medical university and a leader in transformative healthcare, the institution now faces criticism.
Students say declining hygiene standards are derailing their efforts.
At the 4B female residence, two weeks without cleaning staff or running water has left students questioning the value of their nearly R50,000 annual accommodation fees.
"Since we are the only health science university in South Africa, I think we should be the ones to lead by example. It should be healthy and hygienic, but none of that is practised," said one student.
Students say they fear exposure to infection.
A lack of water and unsanitary conditions have disrupted learning, causing delays in tests and classes.
"Some of my colleagues are scared to speak up because they don’t wanna be on the wrong side of the university," said the student.
"But I’m tired. I’m fed up. I want to see change and see them doing their work.”
eNCA contacted Sefako Makgatho University for comment.
In response, authorities said unplanned occupancy during recent water disruptions contributed to deteriorating cleanliness in some isolated cases.
- eNCA’s Naomi Kobbie reports.