Students at Nelson Mandela University (NMU) are raising serious concerns around safety in off-campus student accommodation after a tragic incident on Monday night, where one student was fatally stabbed and another injured during an alleged break-in at a student residence in Summerstrand, Gqeberha.
In a statement, the university expressed its condolences to family and friends of the deceased student and wished the injured student a speedy recovery. NMU confirmed that counselling and psychological support were being offered through the institution’s Emthonjeni Student Wellness Unit, and that it is cooperating.
The deceased has been identified as Minenhle Hlongwane. The incident sparked widespread outrage on social media, with students demanding justice while also questioning the adequacy of security measures at accredited off-campus residences.
“My heart is shattered. Enhle was more than a friend – she was my everything,” wrote Prince Dee, calling for justice. Others criticised the university’s accreditation process, asking how a residence without round-the-clock security was approved.
“This is tragic, students and everyone in South Africa should be safe. “The criminality needs to stop! Condolences to their family and friends,” Sharon Muller said.
Many students voiced frustration, asking what actions the university would take to preventative measures to avoid similar incidents occurring in future. Some questioned whether the accreditation process follows adequate safety checks or are the inspections influenced by the owner’s relationship with the institution’s personnel.
The university’s Student Representative Council (SRC), led by the Democratic Alliance Student Organisation (DASO), echoed these concerns, highlighting the broader issue of violence against women and unsafe student living conditions.
“Another woman has lost her life at the hands of men, a tragic consequence of unsafe living conditions. Our thoughts are with the victims’ families. The SRC will continue to support them through this difficult time,” SRC President Lathitha Mbuzwana said.
A candlelight vigil in memory of Hlongwane was held on Thursday, 16 October, on campus.
