Justice for Rorisang: Students’ Lives Matter
Thabo Motlhabi
Student leaders from the WestCol TVET College, Randfontein Campus, recently organized a march in remembrance of their fallen fellow student, Rorisang, who was murdered last year. The march took place on Thursday, January 22, 2026, beginning at the campus gates and concluding at the Randfontein Magistrate’s Court.
Students marched in solidarity to honor Rorisang and to raise awareness about the ongoing safety concerns faced by students in South Africa. Protesters expressed deep frustration and pain, emphasizing that students are not safe and that the justice system continues to fail them—particularly young female students. The march served as a powerful message that “Student Lives Matter” and that they, as citizens, have the right to move freely without fear, intimidation, or violence.
Rorisang’s case is one of many linked to the rising instances of gender-based violence (GBV) against women and children in the country. Protesters called for stronger action and harsher consequences for perpetrators. Marchers carried placards and chanted slogans in support of their fallen comrade, demonstrating unity, love, and care. Organizers stated that the march was only the beginning and that they would continue to advocate until the perpetrator faced the full might of the law.
Speaking during the march, the SASCO WestCol Randfontein Campus Chairperson, Mr. Happy Mthonjeni, said: “Participants—especially women—viewed the march as a vital demonstration of collective anger and pain over persistent violence and femicide. Rorisang’s case reminds me that gender-based violence is not a distant issue; it is happening to our students, daughters, sisters, and people simply trying to live their lives. The march must lead to real action, accountability, stronger protection, and severe consequences for perpetrators. Otherwise, we are just mourning publicly while the violence continues. We also hope that all legal protocols are followed so that the perpetrator can face justice once and for all, especially after testifying that he would commit the same crime again if given the chance. The current outcome is one we have been praying for, and we are grateful.”
Students across campuses nationwide continue to experience gender-based violence while the justice system appears to be failing. Young female students, in particular, live in constant fear and feel unable to move or express themselves freely. Another SASCO member at the WestCol TVET College Randfontein Campus, Miss Sibongile Mbazima, added:
“We must remain disciplined, united, and fearless in our fight for a better justice system. We cannot allow violence to go unanswered; we will continue to demand accountability until justice is served. Let us show everyone this March that students’ lives matter and that SASCO will always stand with the voiceless. Together we are strong, and together we will ensure that those who harm our comrades face the full force of the law. March with purpose, and never be silenced.”
The protesters continued chanting struggle slogans outside the Randfontein Magistrate’s Court, awaiting the court’s decision and calling for the perpetrator to be denied bail.