Students shut down Wits over fees announcement

Students shut down Wits over fees announcement

Students at Wits University say they will shut down the institution, saying they are not happy with Higher Education and Training Minister Blade Nzimande's announcement on fees for 2017.

Wits students protest Sept 2016 4_jacanews
Photo: Samkelo Maseko

Nzimande announced on Monday that universities would determine their own fee increments.


The minister also recommended that universities implement a maximum increase of 8 percent, but the state will subsidise for all those with a family income less than R600 000 per annum. 


Students embarked on protest action at the university in Johannesburg shortly after the announcement.


They are trying to close down all exit and entry points. 


The students are demanding free higher education across the country. 


Wits student last year lead the #FeesMustFall protests which spread to several South African universities.

Wits students protest Sept 2016 1_jacanews
Photo: Samkelo Maseko
Wits students protest Sept 2016 2_jacanews
Photo: Samkelo Maseko
Wits students protest Sept 2016 3_jacanews
Photo: Samkelo Maseko
Wits students protest Sept 2016 4_jacanews
Photo: Samkelo Maseko


Meanwhile, the Senior Executive Team of the University of the Witwatersrand released a statement saying it will analyse the recommendations and will consult with relevant university stakeholders before making recommendations to Council.


"The academic programme and all University activities continue as planned. Additional security has been brought onto campus and the police are on standby. We remind all colleagues and students that an interdict remains in place to protect staff, students and University property," it said.



Photos and videos by Samkelo Maseko

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