Unisa has announced that it will be extending its deadline for registrations. This follows protests across the university's campuses. 

The protests have been taking place in response to financial exclusion. Students also took this time to protest for the registration deadline to be extended. 

Unisa has confirmed that the deadline has been extended to 26 March 2021, while the minimum payment due date remains 31 March 2021.

"The University of South Africa (Unisa) has noted with concern student protests across its campuses, including proclaimed intentions for these protests to continue until student demands have been met." said the university in a statement.

"During the period of the extended deadline, the university will ensure that the registration backlog is speedily attended to and that the concerns around financial exclusion are also addressed as best as possible." said Unisa. 

On Wednesday, Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande said all first time entering university students will be given until the end of next week to register.

However, the Minister did not say the extension applies to returning students. 

Some returning students are still waiting to receive funding finalisations from NSFAS.

In a media briefing held today, Minister Nzimande said funding will be finalised soon for all students. 

“Some of the demands that are being received by government and universities relate to the debt of students who may not be funded by nsfas but who are struggling to register because they have not been able to pay debt but are doing well academically”.

“I do acknowledge that this period has been stressful for many prospective students wishing to enter post school institutions as well as for their families.

"I look forward to a successful and peaceful academic year,” said Nzimande.