By Staff Reporter
23 Oct 2015
While President Jacob Zuma was preparing to meet with student leaders as well as vice-chancellors and chairpersons of university councils to discuss the stalemate with regards to university fee increases, students from institutions of higher learning marched to the Union Building in Pretoria.
Presidential Spokesperson, Bongani Majola, said in a statement that proposed increase in university fees has angered students, given the financial difficulties faced by students from poor households. He said university fees are determined by universities independently of government, due to their legal status which makes these institutions autonomous.
The President will use the meeting to gain a first-hand account from students about issues that are of concern to them which affect their capacity to learn and do well at the institutions. He will also listen to the leadership of the universities on their views on the matters. He said the President also welcomed the gathering of students at the seat of government, the Union Buildings today.
