The recent tragedy surrounding the death of a University of the Free State (UFS) student has sparked renewed concerns about off-campus safety.

As the university community mourns the loss of a promising young life, the imperative to prioritise student safety has never been more apparent. In response to these distressing events, UFS has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its students and has continued to implement robust off-campus safety measures.

‘These incidents have evoked widespread concern’

On Sunday (5/5), a Kovsie student (19) hailing from KwaZulu-Natal, lost his life in a stabbing incident while on his way from his student accommodation in King Edward Road to Universitas. This tragic incident follows another incident in June 2023, when a 20-year-old student was found injured in Bloemfontein, highlighting the persistent safety challenges faced by students living off-campus. These incidents have evoked widespread concern and prompted students to voice their frustrations on social media platforms regarding the prevalent robberies and break-ins in the area.

Lacea Louder, spokesperson for UFS, conveyed the university's deep sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends, fellow students, and lecturers. Acknowledging the limitations of UFS Protection Services, registered exclusively for on-campus security, Louder emphasised the university's unwavering commitment to student safety both on and off campus.

She also highlighted that central to UFS's approach to off-campus safety is its proactive engagement with external stakeholders, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), Community Policing Forum (CPF), and private security companies. Through continuous off-campus awareness campaigns they conducted collaboratively with these partners, UFS endeavors to empower students with the knowledge and resources to mitigate risks and stay vigilant in their surroundings. Student-led initiatives, such as the Community Safety Committee and involvement of Social Work students, serve as additional pillars of support in fostering a culture of safety within the university community.

The Bloemfontein Campus. Photo UFS

UFS has taken concrete steps to bolster off-campus security through strategic measures. This includes the deployment of contracted armed-response private security companies to ensure round-the-clock coverage and visible patrols, particularly during peak times such as examinations. The accreditation of off-campus residences in collaboration with Housing and Residence Affairs (HRA) further underscores UFS's commitment to providing students with safe living environments.

In addition to proactive security measures, the UFS has leveraged technology and community partnerships to enhance off-campus safety. Crime Stop WhatsApp groups enable real-time reporting and response to incidents, while the distribution of whistles to off-campus students, in collaboration with CPF, serves as a practical safety measure. 

‘Emphasising UFS's holistic approach to student well-being’

The appointment of an Off-Campus Security Liaison Officer facilitates seamless coordination with SAPS and the provision of counselling services to traumatised students, emphasising UFS's holistic approach to student well-being.

Loader said the university also provided counselling to the students who were at the scene when the incident happened.

OFM News/ Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg