North-West University Student Fatally Stabbed By Boyfriend In Dorm Room

Shock and grief have gripped North-West University’s Phokeng campus in Rustenburg after the fatal stabbing of 21-year-old education student Onalenna Selebogo. The third-year student was allegedly killed by her boyfriend last Saturday, 3 August, in what authorities believe was a brutal act of gender-based violence.

Reports suggest Onalenna was subjected to severe physical abuse before being stabbed in the neck multiple times. She was found dead in her dorm room, leaving friends, family, and the university community devastated.

In a heartfelt statement, the university described her as “a vibrant and promising young woman with a passion for education and a bright future ahead.” The statement continued: “Her untimely and violent death has shaken us all.”

Family’s Heartbreaking Plea

As the family comes to terms with the loss, Onalenna’s grandmother issued an emotional warning to young women about the dangers of staying in abusive relationships.

“She advised them to avoid abusive relationships, emphasising the tragic consequences that can occur if they fail to do so,” relatives said.

The university also extended condolences to Onalenna’s family, friends, classmates, lecturers, and the wider NWU community. It condemned the incident, stressing that students should never feel unsafe “in their homes, on campus, or in their communities.”

Murder Suspect in Custody

North West police confirmed that 29-year-old Walter Tshehlo has surrendered to authorities and has been charged with murder. He is scheduled to appear before the Rustenburg Magistrates’ Court on 18 August 2025.

The institution reaffirmed its commitment to combating gender-based violence through its GBV Awareness Programme, jointly led by students and staff.

As the investigation continues, the call for justice for Onalenna has grown louder, with both her loved ones and the university community demanding action to end violence against women.

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