Minister Nzimande Reiterates That Government Has Not Yet Pronounced Itself on 2017 University Fees, Calls For Patience and Cool Heads to Prevail

15 August 2016

The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Blade Nzimande, says he has noted with concern threats to shut down the country's universities, amid false claims that the government has recommended a fee increase for the 2017 academic year.

“The government is yet to pronounce itself on university fee adjustments for 2017. The correct position is that after Ireceived the report of the Council on Higher Education on their recommendation for 2017 fee adjustments last Thursday, I decided to gather further views and suggestions from all stakeholders, including students and university councils,before proceeding with any announcement on the matter.

“Given the competing views on fee adjustments, it is indeed imperative that we get as broad a consensus as possible regarding 2017 fees. The false claims that the government has already pronounced itself on the matter are thus not only mischievous, but highly prejudicial to the delicate stakeholder engagements that are taking place,” Minister Nzimande said – calling for patience from all stakeholders.

In the meantime, Minister Nzimande said he would also continue to consult with his Cabinet colleagues on the matterin an earnest endeavour to find long-term solutions.

Issued by Khaye Nkwanyana, Media Liaison office, 15 August 2016