Future uncertain for free higher education policy: analyst
A political analyst says - the future is uncertain for the free higher education policy announced by President Jacob Zuma.
"Where are the funds going to come from - I just don't know. Where is this money for free education going to come from," Protas Madlala says.
Madlala says the president is yet to qualify - the source of the funds that will subside needy students.
The president said students whose household income per year amounts to R350 000 will be beneficiaries of subsidised free tertiary education and training.
The Higher Education Commission report released last month recommended a cost sharing model in partnership with commercial banks and that 1% of GDP should also be allocated by government.
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Madlala says the current ANC NEC meeting - marking the change in leadership of the ANC - also changes dynamics.
"Zuma is not vacating the presidency right now. It is a bit of a catch-22 with the new ANC top leadership and Zuma still being in the presidency for the next two years. I think one has to wait and see how it plays itself out, especially if the NEC comes from a different slate altogether. I think there is going to be serious tension between the Presidency and the new NEC," he says.