The Gauteng Health Department on Wednesday took the decision to close the Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College indefinitely. This follows a week of illegal protests and class disruptions by students who were demanding that three heads of department (HODs) be fired.

The protests follow grievances that students submitted over the continued employment of the HODs in 2011. The department conducted investigations into the matter and a report was completed in 2012. However, proof of the allegations against the HODs could not be established.

Owing to the failure of students to cooperate and listen to the department’s call for normality, a court interdict was issued to the student representative council (SRC) at the college.

Health MEC Hope Papo said that a series of meetings were held with the members of the SRC in an attempt to find an amicable solution and to ensure a smooth return of the HODs to their posts. The department even appointed a private mediator to assist in the process of finding an amicable solution to the impasse. The students, however, refused to participate in the mediation process.

Papo noted that “the department remained committed to addressing whatever legitimate grievances the students may have, but will not act unlawfully against any of its staff members."

The Gauteng Health Department has subsequently decided to close down the nursing college, with students expected to vacate the nursing residences by Wednesday afternoon.

"The Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane and Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi must urgently intervene in this situation as it deals with a scarce skills programme in which no delays can be tolerated,” said IFP spokesperson for health Hilda Msweli.

“The strike must not be allowed to add to this skills problem and must, therefore, be resolved urgently," she added.