UWC students protest poor living conditions

CAPE TOWN - Students at the University of Western Cape in Cape Town are demanding improved housing conditions.

A group of about 100 students disrupted exams, accusing the institution of failing to meet demands.

They claim three newly constructed student residences are already in disrepair due to poor maintenance.

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The university admits the poor state of the accommodation but argues that the students' deadline is insufficient to solve the issues.

The institution says it is aware of the problems and is looking into additional properties that also require work. 

"Unfortunately, while there are exams happening, we are sympathetic to the cause of students who live in the Unibell residences," said UWC spokesperson Gasant Arbader.

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"We are very much aware of it. Last week, our rector and vice chancellor did an inspection of the entire campus, including the residences and including Unibell and went to see for himself the damages caused by the storm. "

On Friday, Parliament's portfolio committee on higher education will conduct an oversight of the university.

Students intend to address their concerns.

  • eNCA's Nobesuthu Hejana reports.

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