The Riots

So it all started Thursday. Students began gathering in the student center chanting in Setswana.  From there they took to the streets. At first it was just a strike where students would walk up and down the roads chanting and screaming.  It was a lot of people too. I was in my room and heard the commotion, so I looked out the window. There was a stream of people walking by, as more and more people joined.  The  reason for these strikes is because of a few things. For starters the university had a policy where students could retest if they got a 40-49 on their finals.  Along with this all of the pre-med students are pretty pissed as well.  This university isn't a  certified medical school, so pre-med students are going to have a really tough time getting a job.  Then things started to get out of hand. Again the students took to the streets, but this time with much more force.  Some carried sticks that they would threaten people with if they didn't join the cause. I was walking out of my dorm to go to the student center when people would start walking to the exit of the area only to run back.  Before I could ponder why, the reason became apparent.  First there was the chanting, and then a hoard of people filed into the area in front of the dorms.  I was quickly walking back to my dorm when a student with a stick approached me. He demanded that I joined the cause, all the meanwhile holding his stick up. Thankfully another much more sympathetic student saw my distress, told this student that I wasn't to be bothered and escorted me back to the dorms.  Once inside the dorm building a student told me to either stay out of my room or make sure that my room was locked because the rioters will break into the rooms.  I over heard another student say that this was the worst it's been.  

        Classes are canceled tomorrow, and so far no response has been given.  I really hope that this is all resolved soon.  I don't like having to be afraid to walk to the student center. Normally I feel very safe here, and this riot is unusual. I also hope that this is all resolved soon because I really don't want school to end later than it already is.  

Students about to enter the area in front of the dorms

    Now, I  know some people may think I am crazy for being here, but besides this riot this place is wonderful. The people are all very nice and helpful, the weather is heavenly, and the scenery is amazing.  I have enjoyed every second I've been here. I am here to experience new things, and this riot and strike is something that I have never experienced before.