The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, welcomes the sentencing of Aubrey Manaka for the brutal rape and murder of Precious Ramabulana, the 19-year old student who was studying at the Ramokgopa campus of Capricorn TVET College.

The young woman was murdered before being discovered in her rented room in November 2019. Law enforcement reports say Ramabulana suffered multiple stab wounds. 

29-year old Manaka pleaded guilty and was sentenced by the Limpopo High Court earlier today to eight years for robbery with intent to rape, two life terms for both rape and murder, as well as 15 years for robbery with grievous bodily harm.

At the time of her unfortunate death, Ramabulana was studying N6 Business Management and preparing for her final examinations.

“This was a barbaric and shameful act which must be denounced. Our young women must feel safe in society. May Precious’ soul rest in eternal peace, and may her loved ones and friends find strength and peace,” said the Minister.

Minister Nzimande has tasked the Department of Higher Education and Training’s agency, Higher Health, with ensuring that issues of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide are addressed on all campuses in order to create safe spaces for all students. 

Source: Government of South Africa