To the University Community
Friday, 29 August 2025
University of Venda Saddened by the Tragic Death of a Student
As the University of Venda (UNIVEN) community wraps up Women’s Month, we are deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic incident that occurred on Friday, 29 August 2025, involving two of our students residing in accredited off-campus student residences in Ngovhela. A first-year Bachelor of Arts in Language Practice student tragically lost her life after being stabbed multiple times by the perpetrator, who is alleged to be her boyfriend, a second-year Bachelor of Environmental Sciences student. The incident took place inside the perpetrator’s room at around 16h00. According to preliminary reports, the two entered the residence together in the afternoon, appearing in good spirits. Shortly thereafter, loud noises and signs of distress were heard from the room. Security personnel responded swiftly, forcibly entering the locked room where they found the female student fatally wounded. Two knives were found at the scene. Immediately following the attack, the perpetrator attempted to harm himself by jumping through the second-floor window. He sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical attention at a local hospital under police guard. A team representing the UNIVEN management has visited the family of the deceased in Tshitomboni (Makovha) village, outside Thohoyandou, to offer condolences and support. Prof Bernard Nthambeleni, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of UNIVEN, said: “The entire University community is reeling from this tragic loss. I am deeply devastated by the untimely and violent death of our student. On behalf of the University of Venda, I extend heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and fellow students. This senseless act of violence is unacceptable and is strongly condemned. As we close Women’s Month, a time when we reflect on the value, dignity, and strength of women, it is profoundly painful to face such a tragedy. UNIVEN remains steadfast in its commitment to fight gender-based violence in all its forms, while working with law enforcement agencies and stakeholders to strengthen measures that safeguard the safety and well-being of our students.”
This devastating incident has cast a dark shadow over our institution, particularly as we close Women’s Month, a period dedicated to honouring and celebrating the resilience and strength of women.
Support services, including trauma counselling, are being made available to affected students and staff.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased student as well as the entire student community during this time of profound grief.
Ends.
The University of Venda produces graduates who are locally relevant and globally competitive.
Issued by: Dr Takalani Dzaga, APR
Director, Marketing, Branding and Communication University of Venda
Cell: 082 745 3090/ 064 828 9251
E-mail: takalani.dzaga@univen.ac.za
