Universities face a difficult financial future: Nzimande
Student leaders at some universities have reacted strongly to a recommendation by the Higher Education minister that fees will go up, although there'll be a cap at 8%.
Speaking in Pretoria earlier today - Blade Nzimande said both universities and TVET Colleges must continue to function while the Commission of Inquiry looking into the feasibility of free education completes its work.
He says universities face a difficult financial situation - with the effects of last year's moratorium on fee adjustments and the extra costs associated with in-sourcing adding to the challenges.
"Our immediate and present task is to ensure that as we continue to improve access to post-school education, and strengthen the quality of learning and teaching, we do not erode the financial sustainability of the sector," he said.
The 2015 Bursary allocation - an overview #Education4thepoor pic.twitter.com/rQYt9nIKda
— South African Gov (@GovernmentZA) September 19, 2016
"Public universities are a national asset. They empower the next generation with skills and knowledge"- Min BE Nzimande #Education4thepoor
— South African Gov (@GovernmentZA) September 19, 2016
We welcome Nzimande's response to DASO's call, ensuring poor students & the missing middle aren't forced to pay fee increases in short term
— Democratic Alliance (@Our_DA) September 19, 2016