SACBC Statement On #FeesMustFall Campaign
The Catholic Church agrees that the student protest has foundation. We are aware as a Church, of the inequality of opportunity for poor and competent students to access third level education. As Bishops spread throughout the country, we have assisted students with our limited resources. But the majority of the deserving students we have not been able to help. What the students desire is more equality in access to good education at university level. We support this request. But we don’t condone the violence, looting, and vandalizing of property by students and the use of force by police army.
By now we feel that the students have made their protest. The whole society, other students, universities, and the government are very aware of the student’s protest. It is time now for the disturbances to end and for the academic year to continue and for exams to be written.
We feel that at this stage there is little more university authorities can do. In fact, they have generally shown themselves sympathetic to the students’ demands. But the solution suggested by the students at the moment is beyond the financial and organizational capabilities of university authorities. However, it must remain on our agenda as the priority for the future.
What is to be done is for the government to ensure that this academic year is completed in peace. The government and students must now iron out their difficulties. A compromise must be considered as the huge financial demands of university free education cannot be found instantaneously.
As Bishops we extend our sincere sympathy and prayers for a speedy recovery to Fr Graham Pugin, the Jesuit Parish Priest of Braamfontein. Fr Graham was wounded by a direct strike from a rubber bullet to the face while engaged in offering refuge to frightened students.
The Bishops wish to express their appreciation to our Catholic Chaplains who have been close to our students at this anxious time. We encourage university authorities to do all in their power to complete this academic year.
+William Slattery OFM
Archbishop of Pretoria
0834685473
