Students of the Rhodes University has been demanding for action over the death of students of the University, identified as Khensani Maseko. Recently, the SRC looked and there was an academic shutdown on Monday, proceedings are once again halted for Tuesday.
Justice for Khensani Maseko and the role of Rhodes University
Students gathered in their numbers on Monday as management eventually agreed that academic proceedings should not continue in the current climate. The university flag was lowered to half-mast to mourn Maseko as students began to ask tough questions of university management.
Maseko took her own life on 3 August and shared an Instagram post minutes before with the caption – “No one deserves to be raped”.
The university confirmed on Monday that before her death, Maseko and her family had informed the university that she was raped in May by a fellow student.
In 2016, Rhodes University was shut down briefly with ongoing #RuReferenceList protests. The movement looked to expose alleged rapists on campus and pressure university management into taking steps against rape culture.
Maseko was heavily involved in those protests.
As a result of the protests, a Task Team was created in December 2016 to provide recommendations to the university on how to better handle and combat rape instances involving students.
96 recommendations were made, but on Monday panel members remained unsure as to whether the university ever implemented them.
Mabizela confirmed to students that the accused has been issued with an intention to suspend notice and the SAPS have been contacted to carry out an investigation into the incident.
Mabizela: “we are working with SAPS and the National Investigative Authority to launch an inquiry into Khensani’s death. The alleged perpetrator has been served with a letter of suspension.” #RUShutDown18 pic.twitter.com/Oyx0fgEGum
— mishka wazar (@ANicheOfLight) August 6, 2018
The replacement program for Tuesday will see students engaged and reflect on matters of accountability. An open mic session will also be held. At this stage, the academic program is expected to resume on Wednesday.