Higher Education Dept confirms probe into death of Durban University of Technology student

JOHANNESBURG - The Department of Higher Education has confirmed an investigation into the death of a student at the Durban University of Technology.

The student died by suicide after jumping off a building at the Steve Biko campus on Tuesday.

Police have been called in to probe the circumstances surrounding tragedy.

Minister of Higher Education Buti Manamela demanded a full report from the university and also called for urgent counselling and psychosocial support to students, staff, and witnesses.

Department spokesperson Matshepo Seedat said: "The minister will allow the investigative process to proceed. Once the full report is received, the minister will issue a more comprehensive statement."

Manamela has extended his condolences to the family and friends of the student while appealing to the public not to share videos of the incident online.