De Montfort University (DMU) is to implement secure card entry for all its buildings by the beginning of next year. This measure is part of ongoing safety precautions, according to Vice Chancellor Katie Normington.
Ms Normington stated that the fatal stabbing of DMU student Khaleed Oladipo in February had highlighted student safety, though she emphasised that work on these measures had been ongoing. A safety group was established after the incident, and its discussions led to the decision to tighten building security.
In August, 19-year-old Harper Dennis was found guilty of the manslaughter of 20-year-old Khaleed Oladipo at Leicester Crown Court and was sentenced to 10 years' imprisonment. Mr Oladipo died at Leicester Royal Infirmary after being attacked near the DMU Innovation Centre.
DMU also declared itself a 'safe knife campus' in January, replacing large kitchen knives with blunt-point alternatives in halls of residence, pantries, kitchens, and offices. Ms Normington said the university is encouraging other institutions to adopt similar measures.