Monday’s (17/3) protest was triggered by the delayed disbursement of there maining 50% of the book allowance, which was due on 28 February. 

Despite expectations, students reported that the payment had not been made, with no clear communication from the university regarding the delay. 

The protest was a response to the university’s failure to release the funds, said NWU Mahikeng EFF Student Command Chairperson Lesego Sekgabetlele “Lecturers expect us to buy textbooks, but we cannot continue with classes without study materials. That’s why we are taking to the streets—to show management that if the money was allocated, why hasn’t it been released today?” Sekgabetlele said.

He emphasised the book allowance is essential for students to purchase textbooks and laptops, enabling them to fully participate in their studies. The delayed payment has caused widespread frustration among students.

NWU Mahikeng communications manager, Oscar Mosiane, said the university had engaged with student leadership about the delay. 

“The university informed the student command that payments would be made into their accounts from today until Friday (21/3),” Mosiane said. He added that around 300 students were affected, which fuelled the unrest.

According to Mosiane, NSFAS had decided to release 50% of the book allowance and accommodation payments for the first semester, with the remaining 50% scheduled for the second semester. However, the delayed payments and lack of communication left students feeling abandoned and frustrated.

This morning, students barricaded university entrances with stones and disrupted lectures, demanding immediate payment. In response, the university increased security and called on local police to manage the situation.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh