Threats of violence as Wits students gather to hear Nzimande's announcement on fees

19 September 2016 - 13:37 By Roxanne Henderson

Singing students who have gathered at the University of Witwatersrand's Senate House may not get to watch Higher Education and Training Minister Blade Nzimande's announcement on 2017 fees increases. But they are listening to it - via streaming on students' phones.A group of students entered the venue's ground floor in song‚ carrying placards saying “free” on Monday morning. The group then formed a circle as they danced‚ while others watched from staircases and balconies.Outgoing SRC president Nompendulo Mkatshwa said the university's dean of students was due to make a decision as to whether the students would be allowed to set up screens to watch the announcement.Those who can pay must pay: NzimandeHigher Education Minister Blade Nzimande has urged that those who can afford higher education fees to pay in order for government to help students from poor background.“Even if we're not allowed‚ we will still meet here ... But it's going to be violent‚” she said.She said the student body would discuss their response after Nzimamde's announcement.In a statement released earlier‚ the university SRC had said that after months of meetings with stakeholders over issues related to fees‚ it still demands the realisation of free‚ decolonized and quality education."The question should not be whether South Africa can afford free education but can we afford not to have free and quality education."Should the minister fail to address the urgent call for free education ... We will be forced to act."Our stance is clear. We hope Blade will not waste our time‚" it said.– TMG Digital..

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