Police gearing up for 2017 fees protests at KZN universities
The Department of Community Safety and Liaison says law enforcement officers will patrol universities across KZN - when the registration process for 2017 kicks off at campuses, in the next few weeks.
The MEC says there are fears that Fees Must Fall protests could flare up again.
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Last year, protest action broke out at varsities across the country over talks of a fee increase.
Hundreds of people were arrested during Fees Must Fall demonstrations in 2016.
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Mxolisi Kaunda says the safety of students and staff is their main priority.
"There will be some elements of the Fees Must Fall, which will be highlighting the plight of those students without money to register. So we support the efforts of the Higher Education department, and all departments which are involved in bringing the stability to inst. But the police will ensure that safety is certain in these areas," he said.
Most universities have opted to increase their fees by 8%.