20 February 2025
The ANC Study Group on Higher Education and Training is deeply concerned about the ongoing protests at the University of Cape Town (UCT), where hundreds of students have taken to the streets to voice their frustrations regarding critical issues such as financial exclusion, student debt, and inadequate accommodation. We stand in solidarity with these students as they exercise their right to protest peacefully for equitable access to education.
It is unacceptable that any student should be denied access to education due to financial barriers, and we echo the call for policies that effectively prevent financial exclusion. The voices of students must be heard and their concerns addressed immediately.
We commend the efforts of student leaders for articulating the plight of students and their demands for more housing and the ability to register or graduate despite outstanding fees. The fundamental right to education should not be compromised by economic constraints, and we urge the university to take these demands seriously.
While there have been statements acknowledging the issues raised by the students, these words must translate into immediate action. The university must prioritise the needs of its students and implement solutions that address the financial barriers they face without delay.
We also want to highlight the unfortunate circumstances faced by some students who have had to resort to sleeping in SRC offices due to the overwhelming challenges posed by financial exclusion. This situation is intolerable and must be addressed urgently. Adequate support and resources are needed to ensure that all students have access to safe and secure accommodation.
The ANC Study Group on Higher Education and Training strongly condemns any form of violence or intimidation that may arise from these protests and calls for calm among students. It is vital that any demonstrations remain peaceful and focused on constructive dialogue.
We urge the university to engage in meaningful discussions with student leaders to find immediate solutions to these pressing issues. The legacy of the #FeesMustFall movement and the ongoing struggle for affordable and decolonized education must not be forgotten. It is time for the university to take decisive action to support all students and reaffirm its commitment to equitable education.
In conclusion, we call upon all stakeholders in higher education to work collaboratively towards creating an inclusive environment where every student can thrive. We stand with the students of UCT and urge the university to respond to their cries for help with urgency and compassion.
Issued by the Whip of the ANC Study Group on Higher Education and Training, Cde Tshepo Louw
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