More than 700,000 learners recently obtained their National Senior Certificate (NSC) qualification after completing their final Grade 12 examinations. Many of these learners obtained matric passes that enable them to further their education at an institution of higher learning.
This includes placement at public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges as well as the provision for skills programmes.
Currently, in South Africa, there are 26 public universities, 50 TVET colleges and several Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA). These institutions and authorities aim to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to gain employment or explore entrepreneurial activities.
The Economic Freedom Fighters Student Command (EFFSC) are calling on the South African government to expand post-school education in the country.
The student union believes this could eliminate challenges faced by prospective students who meet the requirements to study but are prevented from accessing study and training opportunities because of inadequate space.
EFFSC president Sihle Lonzi is calling on the government to address the enrolment crises in higher education.
To do this, the EFFSC believe all historic student debt must be eliminated, allow for free registration, allow walk-in applications, build accommodation facilities for all students, increase Nsfas allowance and absorb all qualifying first-time applicants.
Lonzi argued that statements made about improving the TVET college sector by Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande do not warrant inspiration from the student union.
This as the government have made similar promises in the past and has failed to deliver.
They said, “The government simply has not had a detailed and concise plan in terms of what they are going to do. The only thing they do to us is you know media briefings, make commitments, but never live up to them.”
Lonzi also questioned why the government would allow institutions without a student's certificate or degree due to historical debt.
By withholding certificates, they also prevent these students from contributing to the country’s economy in a meaningful way.
