Walter Sisulu University (WSU) student Sisonke Mbolekwa, who was fatally shot during a protest over poor living conditions, has been confirmed as an officially registered and NSFAS-funded student.

Higher Education Minister Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane made the confirmation during a visit to the Mthatha campus, clarifying that earlier reports denying Mbolekwa’s enrollment were incorrect. She explained that NSFAS records indicated his last funding was received at the end of the previous academic year.

Mbolekwa was killed on the night of April 14 during protests sparked by outrage over deteriorating residence conditions. Online images showed cracked walls, damaged tiles, and unsafe ceilings in NSFAS-accredited student housing.

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According to Eastern Cape police, a group of students confronted the on-campus residence manager and his family early Tuesday morning. During the clash, the manager allegedly opened fire, killing Mbolekwa and injuring another student.

The situation escalated further when the manager’s car was torched, and his wife suffered head injuries. The police’s Public Order unit later intervened to rescue the family.

Despite the violence, no arrests have been made. Authorities say students have blocked access to the area and are not cooperating with investigators.

Initially, WSU claimed that the victim was not a student, but this was later disproven when Mbolekwa’s family identified his body and confirmed his enrollment.

The fatal shooting has intensified calls for accountability and improved student housing standards, as well as justice for the young life lost during the protest.