2017 university fees announcement postponed
Today's scheduled announcement by the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Blade Nzimande, of his recommendations to university councils regarding possible fee increases for the 2017 academic year has been postponed to allow for further consultations.
In a statement, the Department of Higher Education and Training said Minister Nzimande received the report of the Council on Higher Education on fees in 2017 on Thursday, and had hoped to make an announcement as early as today following consultation with a very wide range of stakeholders.
These discussions with the vice chancellor's body Universities South Africa, student representatives, the organisation of university council chairpersons, and civil society and political formations are, however, still ongoing.
"The Minister has decided to gather further views and suggestions before proceeding with any announcement. Given the competing views on fee adjustments during this period in which the Heher Commission of Inquiry is still gathering evidence before making long term proposals, it was seen to be imperative that as broad a consensus as possible regarding 2017 is achieved," said Ministry spokesperson Khaye Nkwanyana.