Killing sparks counselling move
2003-05-07 11:42
Grahamstown - The killing of a student, allegedly at the hands of her ex-boyfriend, has prompted Rhodes University to consider holding workshops to help students cope with relationship problems.
A pall of depression hangs over the Grahamstown campus as students come to terms with the murder of third-year journalism student Tumi Manyadioane, 22, who was stabbed to death on Sunday night.
Her estranged boyfriend, a 21-year-old, second-year pharmacy student, was also stabbed and is recovering in hospital under police guard.
The couple were found in Manyadioane's room in Olive Schreiner House womans' residence when a sub-warden went to check why Manyadioane, also a sub-warden, had not locked the residence doors by 23:00.
A pair of bloody scissors and a butcher's knife were found at the scene.
Police believe the two argued and came to blows.
University vice-chancellor Dr David Woods is writing to the parents of students who live in residence to reassure them about campus security.
Candle-lit vigil held
"At no stage, was there any illegal entry or break-in during this tragic incident. It was a very sad end to a broken relationship," said Rhodes spokesperson Linda Burton.
Woods has met Olive Schreiner House residents to commend them on the way they handled the situation, and to reassure them about their security and safety.
He also joined a candle-lit vigil organised by Manyadioane's friends.
He has fully briefed all house wardens about the killing so that they can respond to concerns or questions from parents or students.
University counsellors also reminded the wardens that counselling services were available for staff and students.
It was agreed workshops were needed to help students cope with relationship problems.
"This has been a sad time for the whole Rhodes community," said Woods. "At this point, we need to help the students move forward in any way we can."
A memorial service will be held in the Rhodes chapel on Thursday at 14:00.
Manyadioane's ex-boyfriend is being treated at Livingstone Hospital in Port Elizabeth for multiple stab wounds in the stomach and neck.
He has regained consciousness and is reported to be in a stable condition.