The Nelson Mandela University (NMU) says it is devastated by the tragic loss of five students in separate incidents over the past three weeks, describing the period as one of the most heartbreaking periods in its history.
The students, who died from various circumstances, including suicide, drowning, and murder have been identified as:
- Enhle Mboza, a second-year Bachelor of Arts student
- Lihle Shenxane, a Higher Certificate in Information Technology student
- Aphile Jozana, a Higher Certificate in Business Studies student
- Minenhle Hlongwane, a second-year Bachelor of Law (BA Law) student
- Sikhunjulwe Nkewana, a third-year Diploma in Logistics student
In a statement, the university said Mboza tragically died by suicide at an off-campus residence on October 31. On the same day, Shenxane and Jozana experienced difficulties while swimming at Victoria Bay in George; Shenxane drowned, and Jozana later died in hospital from related complications.
Two weeks earlier, Hlongwane was fatally stabbed during a robbery at a private residence in Summerstrand, Gqeberha, while Nkewana was found unresponsive in his off-campus room in Central, Gqeberha, just over a week ago.
“These young lives were filled with promise, potential, and purpose. Their passing has left an immeasurable void in our university community’s soul,” NMU said in its statement.
NMU Vice-Chancellor Professor Sibongile Muthwa expressed deep sorrow, extending condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the students.
“We grieve alongside the families and hold them close in our thoughts and prayers during this time of profound sorrow,” said Muthwa. “We also recognise the emotional toll these tragedies have taken on our students and staff. The University’s Emthonjeni Student Counselling Services is providing ongoing psychosocial support to all who have been affected.”
The deaths come just as students are preparing for final examinations, compounding the emotional stress across the campus community.
“We are reminded of the fragility of life and the strength found in community,” said Muthwa. “Let us continue to reach out, support and show compassion to one another as we navigate this heartbreaking period together.”
The wave of student deaths at NMU mirrors a growing concern over student mental health and safety across South Africa’s higher education institutions.
In a separate incident, a Durban University of Technology (DUT) student died by suicide after jumping off a building at the university’s Steve Biko campus in KwaZulu-Natal. Several universities have reported similar tragedies this year, prompting calls for expanded mental health services, better campus safety, and stronger community support networks.
Higher education experts and student leaders have urged institutions to prioritise mental wellness, counselling accessibility, and off-campus safety, especially as the end-of-year exam period intensifies pressure on students.
