University of Zambia students Union (UNZASU) has described Higher Education Minister’s decision to suspend all Union activities as illogical and questionable.
Speaking at a media briefing this morning, UNZASU President Adrian Matole said the Union will continue to operate without interference from anyone.
Mr. Matole maintained that the Union was established by an act of parliament, as such, Prof. Nkandu Luo had no authority to suspend all Union activities in her personal capacity.
“UNZASU is by Law established and mandated to coin its constitution to govern, organize, coordinate and administer students’ activities” Matole said
Mr. Matole said the Union has many vital activities to and projects currently underway including offering sponsorship to vulnerable students and purchasing library furniture.
He urged government to focus on solving the problems that student and lecturers are facing and not add more crises to already existing ones.
Mr. Matole revealed that up to date the students have not yet been paid their accommodation and project allowances and that lecturers are still on go slow.
He added that the students rioted because they wanted to air out their grievances but the Union was not involved.
“The protests that took place had no blessing from the Union because we believe in the doctrine of upholding rules and regulations of the institution and the nation”. Matole Said.
He challenged government to call for an urgent meeting to resolve all issues involving the students and the institution.
Higher Education Minister Nkandu Luo recently suspended all union activities at the University of Zambia Great East road campus after students at the institution rioted over their delayed accommodation and project allowances.