The 2024 State of the Nation Address (Sona) is set against a backdrop of global chaos and uncertainty, presenting a crucial moment for our nation. As the president prepares to unveil the vision of the Government of National Unity (GNU) after months of internal cabinet discussions and inter-party engagements, many citizens are eager to hear how he perceives the state of our nation. This address is not just a formality, it is an opportunity for the president to connect with the public and offer hope during these tumultuous times.
One area where many expect to see a glimmer of hope is in higher education and training. There is a palpable anxiety among students who feel that their needs are often overlooked. Yet, there is also a lingering hope that the president will outline a plan that demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing these disparities. The challenges are significantly about overcrowded institutions, inadequate funding, lack of diversity in educational offerings and stagnant growth within our colleges and universities.
They want to be certain that though they are among those who are left behind by the good tidings that the likes of “Tintswalo” have got in the way of funding accommodation and tuition, they too shall benefit because the benevolent state is working out a plan.
While the president will not be presenting a budget during this address, students and academics are hoping for a solid plan that addresses their pressing concerns, particularly pertaining to spaces and funding. The questions remain: what are the challenges facing students today? Are we experiencing a crisis in higher education? If so, how can we resolve it?
The reality is stark. Every year, countless students struggle to secure places in institutions of higher learning. The number of prospective students far exceeds the available spaces, leading to frustration and disappointment among those eager to pursue their education. This issue is particularly pronounced for historically disadvantaged students. Universities and colleges continue to deteriorate. If we do not see an increase in both the number of institutions and their capacity, our higher education sector risks remaining stagnant and impoverished.
The situation is dire as many colleges and universities face even greater challenges due to corruption and maladministration that stifle their potential for growth and expansion. There is a need to specifically address the devastating effects that corruption has had on the sector. The quest for redress will not be achieved as long as issues such as corruption continue to have a grip over our institutions. By extension, our capacity to accommodate more cohorts of students will remain stagnant.
Additionally, we must diversify the opportunities available to students. This requires collaborative efforts from government, civil society and the private sector to explore non-traditional avenues for training. To combat the growing problem of overproduction from basic education, we need to shift our focus towards practical forms of learning — such as artisanal learnerships and mass training programmes — that can provide meaningful qualifications through work-based experiences. Increasing these opportunities by at least 50% over the next three years is essential if we hope to address these challenges effectively. These are, of course, some of the things we expect to hear from a thorough state of the nation address.
Furthermore, the president must prioritise higher education funding to prevent a repeat of the crises that erupted in 2015 and 2016 when protests over tuition fees and access became widespread. Students are not merely seeking financial assistance, they require support that is adequate and accessible. The existing funding models often leave deserving students without necessary resources, forcing them to abandon their dreams of higher education.
The president has an opportunity before him — a chance to set forth a transformative vision for higher education that prioritises accessibility, equity and innovation
Moreover, the role of government in creating an inclusive and equitable higher education landscape cannot be overstated. This includes revising policies governing student admissions and financial aid systems to address historical injustices faced by marginalised communities. It’s crucial that these policies reflect a commitment to equity rather than merely serving as bureaucratic hurdles.
Investment in infrastructure development within educational institutions is vital. Upgrading facilities, enhancing digital learning environments, and ensuring access to essential resources are necessary steps towards improving educational outcomes for all students. We expect the president to weigh in on these issues.
The president has an opportunity before him — a chance to set forth a transformative vision for higher education that prioritises accessibility, equity and innovation. By addressing these issues head-on, with actionable plans backed by adequate funding and collaborative efforts from all sectors of society, we can pave the way for a brighter future for our students.
As citizens invested in our nation’s progress, we must hold our leaders accountable for their promises regarding higher education reform. It is time for decisive action to ensure that no student is left behind in their quest for knowledge and opportunity.
Let us remember that education is not merely about acquiring knowledge, it is about empowering individuals to realise their potential and contribute meaningfully to society. It is about creating pathways for success that transcend socioeconomic barriers. The future of our nation depends on how well we invest in our youth today. Therefore, it is crucial that we advocate for policies that reflect this understanding.
The president's address will be more than just words, it will be a reflection of our collective aspirations as a nation committed to progress through education. Let us hope that this Sona marks a turning point — a moment when we collectively decide to invest in our future by prioritising higher education as a fundamental right rather than a privilege reserved for the few.
• Nkateko Muloiwa is an MSc science communications candidate at the University of the Witwatersrand and also an activist
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