Mafikeng Campus tackles crime head on

North-West University’s Mafikeng Campus has entered into a partnership with the North West Provincial Government in an attempt to tackle crime in the Mafikeng area. Other partners include the North West Social Security Cluster comprising the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Public Safety and Liaison Department.

The initiative follows the escalation of criminal activities such as assault and robbery in the area, and is a result of a series of consultations with stakeholders.  

Dean of Students Dr Sammy Thekisho commented, “We cannot fold our arms while matters get worse and students fall victim to crime.” He said students were often robbed of their belongings, including essential study aids such as laptops. “The University has worked hard to create a safe environment on campus, but the time has come to also take safety precautions off-campus where most of our students reside.” He added that the University was committed to assisting with matters affecting the Mafikeng community.

As a first step, the University together with SAPS have identified hot spots where the streets will be regularly patrolled to curb criminal activities. The University, with the support of other local education institutions, has also organised an official march on 24 May 2012 to the North West premier’s office, where a memorandum regarding the challenges presented by crime in Mafikeng will be handed to Pemier Thandi Modise and the Speaker, Mr Supra Mahumapelo.

The march will be preceded by a prayer session at the Great Hall on 24 May 2012 at 13:00. All students, staff and members of the community are invited to join the march against crime.