Zuma working on university fees issue
Government, working with universities, is exploring various options to meet the commitment made by President Jacob Zuma of a zero percent increase in university fees in 2016, the presidency said on Sunday.
A formal commission of inquiry to look into other matters, including, transformation and free education, was also on the cards, the presidency said in a statement on Sunday.
“Each university will be engaged to ensure that practical effect is given to the letter and spirit of the agreement,” the presidency said in a statement.
The agreement was reached during the meeting between government, university vice-chancellors, council chairpersons, and student leaders on October 23 at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
“An announcement will be made once the consultation processes have been concluded,” the presidency said.
Zuma also announced last month that further engagement would take place on matters beyond fees, relating to among others, transformation, free education, institutional autonomy, and living conditions of students on campuses.
Zuma was currently exploring the establishment of a formal commission of inquiry to look into the matter.
He said due regard would be given to existing studies that had been undertaken in the field of transformation of higher education, including broadening access for students from poor households. An announcement on the commission would be made in due course, the presidency said.