Pretoria - The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education has welcomed the initiative taken by Higher Education and Training Minister Blade Nzimande to address the challenge of university fees for 2017.
Minister Nzimande on Wednesday briefed the committee on the advice received from the Council of Higher Education (CHE).
Highlighting progress being made on fee increases for the 2017 academic year, the Minister revealed that CHE had indicated that if the 0% fee increases continued, about 19 universities will become dysfunctional in 2018, and that if increases were to be based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), about 10 universities will be rendered dysfunctional.
Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee Connie September said consideration needs to be given to create lasting stability at institutions of higher education.
“As yet, no decision has been taken on university fee increases and thus there is no need to threaten closing institutions of higher learning. We call on all stakeholders in the sector to collectively work towards consensus to improve education for all,” said September.
The committee also noted the advice received from CHE, adding that further consultations are still being undertaken, including with National Treasury.
“Solutions arising from these consultations should allay uncertainty, but also should not disadvantage the poorest of the poor. The committee will look to supplement the work that the department is doing,” September said.
She said she was satisfied with the regulatory framework being mooted for fees in the future. – SAnews.gov.za
