News

Students Protests Under the Microscope in Parliament

Written by Mfundo on 23 March, 2021

By: Lindelani Mbatha

Higher education Minister, Blade Nzimande, says he’s concerned that it has become a norm that at the beginning of each academic year, higher learning institutions face instability.

Nzimande has been addressing the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, Science and Technology.

Students have been protesting over historical debt and funding for the past few weeks.

The protests are set to continue this week as students from 18 universities participate in the national shutdown-with more expected to join.

Meanwhile, Parliamentary Higher Education Portfolio Committee members say are concerned that higher learning institutions use police and suspension letters to isolate student leaders.

Students from across the country have been protesting over historical debt and funding over the past three weeks.

Early this month, Mthokozisi Ntumba was caught in the crossfire during running battles between protesting students and the police.

Students are calling for historic debts to be scrapped and free registration for all students in 2021, amongst other demands during their protest.

IFP MP, Mthokozisi Nxumalo, says its shocking that a democratic government is using these intimidating tactics to treat students.

ANC’s Thobile Mkhatshwa says universities must work closely with SRC’s to deal with students challenges.