The quest for free tertiary education rages on

In South Africa, October marks a significant milestone as it has been a year since students initiated discussions on the topic of free education. What began as a peaceful conversation has evolved into a series of violent protests that have disrupted the functioning of several universities in the country. The ongoing unrest has raised concerns about the future of higher education and the need for a resolution to the current crisis. Connie September, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training, recently shared her insights on the matter in an interview with CNBC Africa. During the interview, September highlighted the efforts of the portfolio committee to engage with various stakeholders in the education sector to address the challenges at hand. She emphasized the importance of dialogue and collaboration among different parties to find constructive solutions to the issues causing tension and division within the community. Recognizing the complexities of the situation, September acknowledged the deep-seated issues of mistrust and animosity that have surfaced during the protests. One of the key themes that emerged from the discussion was the desire for free higher education in South Africa. While the concept is appealing to many, there were concerns raised about the feasibility of implementing such a policy given the country's current economic constraints. September mentioned that significant strides had been made in providing free education to disadvantaged groups through initiatives like the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). However, she also highlighted the need to address the 'missing middle' - individuals who do not qualify for financial assistance but still face challenges in affording education. In response to questions about the affordability of free education, September referenced past government initiatives that aimed to support students from varying financial backgrounds. She noted that the focus should be on prioritizing assistance for those in need, rather than extending benefits to individuals who can afford to pay for their education. By targeting specific groups like the poor, the missing middle, and students attending vocational colleges, the government can ensure that resources are allocated effectively to support education across all sectors. Moreover, September emphasized the importance of looking beyond just tuition fees and addressing broader issues within the higher education system. She highlighted the need to align educational policies with the goals outlined in the national development plan to ensure sustainable progress and growth in the country. By restructuring the current funding mechanisms and redistributing resources more equitably, South Africa can work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for students at all levels of education. As the conversation around free tertiary education continues to evolve, it is clear that there are both challenges and opportunities on the horizon. While the path forward may be complex and require difficult decisions, the commitment of individuals like Connie September and the efforts of various stakeholders in the education sector offer hope for a brighter future. By fostering a spirit of collaboration and inclusivity, South Africa can pave the way for a more accessible and equitable higher education system for generations to come.