This is what Higher Education needs, Minister Mkhize
Tuesday’s Cabinet reshuffle, which saw former Minister Blade Nzimande replaced by Hlengiwe Mkhize, only served as proof of government’s reluctance to resolve the numerous problems facing South Africa’s higher education sector.
Minister Mkhize can help revive the sector, but to do this there are five things she needs to do urgently. She must:
Fight for more funding in Higher Education Sector
The National Treasury and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) found that the sector is underfunded by a whopping R35 billion per annum. That’s not even taking into account the additional funding which will probably be recommended by the Fees Commission. Many learners cannot access higher learning, or obtain proper accommodation at Universities and TVETs. Their plight can also be greatly assisted by ensuring the National Student Financial Aid Scheme is governed to the highest standards.
Insist on the release of the Fees Commission report by the President