UKZN SRC seek answers on R73m spent on investigation

SIBONISO MNGADI

The Student Representative Council (SRC) of the University of KwaZulu-Natal has requested a detailed report on how the university spent R73 million on an internal investigation into the sale of places at its Medical school.

Although the investigation has dragged on for over four years, findings have not been released. This week, the university disclosed that at least R73 million has been spent on it.

This was after the Durban High Court ordered the university to disclose the figures following an application by businessman Visham Panday.

The investigation known as “Operation Clever” was commissioned in 2016 after the allegations of bribery to gain placement at the Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine was exposed by Sunday Tribune.

The millions spent raised eyebrows as the university has been struggling financially over the years which has led to violent student protests and damage to its properties.

This week, students staged a peaceful protest, sleeping at the university's main entrance demanding a write-off of historic debt.

Philani Mncwabe, secretary-general of the SRC, described the spending on the investigation as “senseless” and has since requested a meeting with the management to provide a detailed report.

While disclosing the amount, Normah Zondo, UKZN Executive Director Corporate relations said the cost of the investigation comprised of security services to protect evidence and the investigator, including accommodation at a safe house.

“It is pertinent to record that UKZN laid criminal charges in 2017 with the South African Police Services. Subsequent to the appointment of an investigative team by the state, UKZN has at all material times co-operated to the full extent with the investigating officers and National Prosecuting Authority. The investigations are accordingly in the hands of the Hawks of the SAPS, as they have been for a considerable time, and UKZN is informed that they are still ongoing,” Zondo added.

Mncwabe said there was a scheduled meeting with management where all issues about Operation Clever would be discussed.

“We have been putting pressure on the management to release the information instead of challenging the court decision to show transparency. However, it is concerning that so much money has been spent on the investigation that has not served any justice.

“We also believe the investigation must be closed because it has been compromised by a change in management and some implicated staff have left the institution. There are many allegations of fraud through this investigation. We want detailed proof as to how the budget escalated to over R73 million while the university has financial issues.

“We have agreed on cooperation with the management as we also want to raise R3 million as a SRC to assist students in financial distress, but we also want the university to be transparent when it comes to finances,” said Mncwabe.