The Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State has expressed shock and outrage at the murder of student Siyawandisa Mpho Ruda (23). He was shot dead by one of two unknown armed robbers at about 22:30 on Saturday (19/11) in the Bloemfontein suburb Universitas.
Ruda, from Bisho in the Eastern Cape, stayed at an off-campus accommodation. He was in the final year of attaining his national diploma in internal auditing at the Bloemfontein campus.
“This is indeed devastating for Ruda’s family, friends, the cohort of classmates and lecturers to whom he was close as well as the CUT community. Our deepest condolences to his family, faculty, and friends. Our prayers are with the family during this time. This is truly an unprecedented loss to the university,” said Dan Maritz, spokesperson of the university.
He said the slain student had ambitions to realise his dream, made evident by his commitment to his studies. “He was a living example of what we aim to achieve with our students. His death is tragic,” said Maritz.
Ruda’s murder again cast a spotlight on the safety of students and the increasing crime level.
“This unfortunate incident calls on all of us to reflect on what every single one of us can do to address the safety and security of our city. We urge our law enforcement agencies to help us reclaim the safety and security of the communities where our students live. Our students have a legitimate claim to walk peacefully on the streets from their residences to the campus, to enjoy their shopping, and to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of their living space and their surroundings without the fear, apprehension, and insecurity that constantly diminishes the quality of their academic lives,” said Maritz.
The deceased was ambushed on the corner of John Knox and Calvyn Street while in the company of a 20-year-old female companion – a second-year student enrolled at the University of the Free State (UFS). The varsity has also expressed outrage and sadness about the brutal attack on the pair.
The UFS stated that its department of student counselling and development is rending counselling to the female student. The varsity also pointed that the safety of students staying off-campus remains one of the major challenges facing most universities.
The police are searching for the murderers who are on the run. Any member of the public who might have information that can lead to the arrest of the suspects is requested to call Capt. David Ramasoala on 082-4681-624. Alternatively, the information can be submitted on the My SAPS app or by dialling the Crime Stop number, 08600-10111.
