WHAT STUDENTS SAY…
JOSHUA NAIDOO, 20, of Phoenix, studying first-year computer science, was in favour of protests, “especially if there is an increase in the fees”.
“This year there was no increase and it’s been manageable. If fees increase next year, it will certainly impact on me and many other students.”
Naidoo, who is a partial bursary recipient, said he was currently paying around R25 000 for his tuition and this excluded textbooks and transport. “But generally this issue affects everyone,” he said.
JUSTIN TREVOR, 20, of Scottburgh, a second-year computer science student, described the current fees as “way too high”.
“I am in support of whatever lowers the fees, but so far the protest is not really united.
“People are striking for different reasons. Some are striking for residences; some want their tuition to be completely free and others want no increases on their current fees.”
Trevor said that free education “doesn’t sound realistic”. “It will just impact the taxman, but on the other hand it can’t be high increases.”
He denounced violent protests. “The university has to spend money to refurbish the damage; that money can be used as bursaries to fund students.”
KIYEN MADURAY, 21, second-year computer science student, of Silverglen, Chatsworth, said he thought the protests were valid.
“The fees are too high. For most households in South Africa it is not affordable. Keeping in mind that the fees exclude transport and textbooks.”
He said there were no violent protests this year but he did understand the reasons behind the current anger.
“I think the protesters feel if talk nicely, no one is going to listen.”