MK Student Movement Hosts Student Service Rally at TUT
BY: Bandile Mbango
x: @Bandilekamo
Email: bandilekamogelo7@gmail.com
The MK Student Movement held a Student Service Rally at Tshwane University of Technology's Pretoria campus on Friday the 9th of May 2025. Held at the Standard Bank Auditorium, the event was aimed at addressing urgent student concerns including financial exclusion, unfair academic scheduling, and poor treatment in student residences.
Many students shared how they are struggling some were defunded by NSFAS and got kicked out of their residences, even though they didn’t do anything wrong. Others said they can’t focus on schoolwork because the exam timetable is unfair and doesn’t give them enough time to prepare. Some said the university doesn’t listen when students try to complain.
Three guest speakers Thabang Nkani, Bongani Ncala, and Philani Nduli attended the rally to show their support. They emphasized that their mission extended beyond the Pretoria campus and that they were committed to representing students across all TUT campuses. “We are not here for show,” said Thabang Nkani, MPL Party Leader. “We are here because students are suffering, and we cannot keep quiet. If the university does not listen, we will act. We will stand with you until your voices are heard.”
“The defunding affected everything, I couldn’t pay for my residence, and I was asked to leave. I had no warning, and no support. I’m still attending classes, but it’s difficult without stable accommodation.” Said Thabiso Dlamini, a first-year student
They also spoke about the issues in student residences, On-campus students at Pretoria said they are locked out of their rooms after a certain time, even if they were studying late at the library. The MK Student Movement made it clear that if the university does not listen to student complaints, there will be a shutdown. They said they will lead a march for student rights, especially to help those who were defunded and are now suffering.
Philani Nduli, former MK Youth League Gauteng Coordinator and MKSM SRC Deployee, strongly criticized the treatment of students in residence. “Students are not criminals, they are in the library until late because they care about their futures. Locking them out like fugitives is not only unjust it’s dangerous. Anything could happen to them outside. We’re going to fight to end this policy. It strips students of dignity, and enough is enough.”
After the rally, students received free T-shirts and refreshments. To end the event, a small march took place inside campus, where students walked together and showed unity. The leaders said they will keep fighting for students and make sure no one is left behind.
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