By Bhekizulu Tshuma

YOUTHS leaders from political and civic society organisations in Bulawayo have confronted National University of Science and Technology Registrar Fidelis Mhlanga demanding a list of students who were both accepted and rejected for the August 2012 intake, sparking further controversy over the institution’s entry list.

The group is composed of members from ZAPU, Ibhetshu Likazulu, ZAPU FP, PUMA and Umhlahlo Wesizwe sikaMthwakazi.

Ndondana Moyo a member of the group said that they have given Mhlanga up to Thursday to respond to their demands “before taking necessary measures.”

“... we have noted with great concern the tribal list of students accepted into the August intake. Further, following comments of the spokesperson of the university saying students from Matebeleland do not qualify in the institute, as young leaders from different political parties and civic society of Matebeleland sat down on the 18^th of June and decided to make an enquiry into the matter,” reads part of the letter that was forwarded to the registrar.

Moyo said they are demanded to be furnished with a list of both students who were accepted and rejected and the criteria used during the screening process.

“Please respond to our request as soon as possible, preferably by the 21^st of June as we have a critical meeting later that day where the response will be needed,” read the letter.

Contacted for comment, the office of the registrar confirmed receiving such a letter but said they were still working on the responses.

Failure by students from Matebeleland to enrol at NUST has in recent years sparked debate by leaders in the region who are accusing the institution of furthering the marginalisation of the region.