"She had a small operation on her knee this morning [Tuesday] and she's doing very well... everything is going very well," spokesperson Gerbie van Heerden said in a statement.

Mashooda Sedibeng fell into the shaft at the Klaradyn residence on Monday. It was suspected that the interlocking safety mechanism of one of the lift doors did not operate properly.

Sedibeng was being treated at the Little Company of Mary hospital. The university would pay her medical costs.

The institution was investigating why the incident happened, as regular maintenance was carried out by the service provider.

According to statutory requirements lifts should be inspected monthly. The university also complied with the law by commissioning independent inspections.

"The service provider, Schindler, is also contracted to service the lifts regularly to identify possible operational defects. The university monitors the implementation of the inspection reports on a continuous basis... It is unclear why this malfunction occurred despite the above-mentioned processes.

"The university's concerns are with the student, her family and fellow Klaradyn residents at this time. The University wishes the student, Ms Mashooda Sedibeng, a full and speedy recovery."

Sapa

Week in Quotes The ANC has no interest in porn; the JSC is impartial; and the SABC wants public thanks...

The iafrica.com debate Should politicians be entitled to excessive luxury? Ebrahim Moolla takes on Rebekah Kendal...

Quirky & Bizarre Do you need a laugh? Then check out our offbeat stories from around the world...