Transform education

THE Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC) supports the struggle for free quality and obligatory education.

The struggle for education at tertiary level is a noble struggle waged by the gallant and progressive student formations, PASMA, the workers and the entire #FallistMovement.

We have also been disturbed by the response of the government and the universities who harass, intimidate and expel some of the student leaders of the struggle for free education.

These actions are totally uncalled for; we condemn it in the strongest possible terms. We are standing by the leaders who are still facing disciplinary tribunals, which are meant to harass and demoralise the struggle for free education.

The call by this government that an increase in the tuition fees is allowed is equal to a betrayal of the interests of African people.

Funding of education cannot be left to the will of private individuals; it is the responsibility of government to fund the education, it cannot be left to the institutions to find their way.

There is money to fund the education system, the money which is used to fund duplicate governments at national, provincial and local levels.

The existence of multiple levels of governments extends wasteful expenditures and corrupt programmes.

The struggle for access to education must also encompass the struggle for a change of curriculum. It can no longer be business as usual in terms of what is being taught at tertiary level.

The curricula is a reflection of experiences of the people, and their aspirations and interests for the future. Education must produce scholars who can fit in with the African social order. The struggle must therefore also challenge the Eurocentric approach to our education.

Education is central to the development of the African people. It is therefore absurd that Blade Nzimande and his government fails to comprehend this reality.

Unless education is treated as a key focus area in resolving the problems Africans face, we will never progress as a nation. Bennet Joko PAC Deputy Secretary-General