Parliament welcomes NSFAS fee increase exemption
Parliament's Select Committee on Education and Recreation has welcomed the announcement by the Department of Higher Education and Training that students qualifying for NSFAS funding - and those falling into the so-called 'missing middle' - be exempt from any fee increases next year.
The committee views the decision as the first step towards free, quality tertiary education for the poor and missing middle.
It said in a statement released today that doing so is a way of fighting the triple threat of poverty, unemployment and inequality.
Chairperson Lungelwa Zwane says capping any increases at 8% for those who can afford it will also ensure varsities do not endure financial pressure and will be able to deliver quality education.
She's also urging students to acknowledge the processes that are underway, adding that the committee is concerned by protests on campuses.