ZANASU backs closure of Mulungushi varsity

Tue, 02 May 2017 09:47:28 +0000

By MARY KACHEPA

WE support the move by Government to close Mulungushi University because riots have a negative impact on both peace and property, says Zambia National Students Union (ZANASU) president Joseph Busenga.

Mr Busenga supported the decision by Minister of Higher Education to close the university for 10 days as was the only way to preserve both peace and property on campus.

The minister announced yesterday that Mulungushi University would be closed for 10 days following protests but that the examination timetable would not be changed.

“We commend the minister for closing the Mulungushi University for 10days and we wish to vehemently appeal to her and the University management to maintain the initial fees,” he said.

He, however, said that it was also imperative for management to engage all stakeholders such as the union and parents before increasing tuition fees.

“We, as ZANASU, find the management of the university to be unreasonable by increasing fees by a K3, 000 and yet it is the most expensive school in Zambia at the moment,” he said.

Mr Busenga said that the presence of the police also precipitated riots because their modus operandi was very bad.

“We find the police to be a catalyst of confusion, they don’t have the technique to approach students and civilians at large without exasperating the situation.

“ZANASU has not welcomed the move and stance taken by professor Luo to suspend the union activities for this academic year, what is she insinuating? That the union led the riot?” he wondered.

He said that the move to suspend the union by the Minister of Higher Education Professor Nkandu Luo did not promote dialogue at all.