Minister Nzimande Welcomes Nelson Mandela Foundation's De-escalation Appeal:

26 February 2016

The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr. Blade Nzimande, welcomes today's call by Judge Mokgoro, the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Ahmed Kathrada foundation and BrandSA for a de-escalation of a range of current violent acts and polarising rhetoric in the country - and calls upon community, faith and other leaders to add their voices and influence to this appeal.

"Key to the resolution of the real issues facing students and the Higher Education sector, among others in the country, is the acceptance by all sides that dialogue is the route to sustainable solutions, and that this needs to take place within a climate of peace and an acceptance by all South Africans of the rule of law," he said.

Minister Nzimande has been in intensive discussions with the entire range of stakeholders in the Higher Education sector, and continues to seek with them lasting and sustainable solutions to the very real challenges facing Higher Education.

He has also stressed his gratitude to all those who have raised these issues and continue to engage in a constructive manner.

Minister Nzimande will, in the coming days, meet a range of stakeholder representatives - including students, academics, support staff organisations and administrators - as he intensifies the dialogue begun last year.

Further information on these meetings will be made public at the appropriate time.

Statement issued by Khaye Nkwanyana, Director: Media Liaison Officer, Department of Higher Education and Training, 26 February 2016