Seeking solutions to support affordable, quality tertiary education

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THERE is no doubt that the funding model of our postschool education system needs to radically change as we continue to expand access and transform institutions.

Processes initiated by the Department of Higher Education and Training under my leadership have examined the problem and proposed some solutions. But the current situation makes clear that we need more creativity in reaching lasting solutions to the complex problems.

The government’s policy commitments, captured in the Freedom Charter and the constitution, are clear. We are firmly committed to progressively achieving free post-school education for the poor and working class, and to assisting middle class families who can’t afford fees. This commitment is demonstrated in the more than R60 billion which the government has invested in the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), and the expansion of this scheme over recent years, with the funds available more than tripled. It is evident in the range of initiatives under way to address the missing middle.

Nevertheless, there are choices we must face. Free higher education for everyone is neither feasible nor government policy. The reality is that demand for post-school education and training far outstrips available places and funding. My department is responsible for more than just universities. Our remit includes school-leaving youth entering universities, technical and vocational education and training colleges, and opportunities for people who did not complete schooling. The community college sector alone must provide education and training for 18 million South Africans not able to study at university.

The issues are political and technical. They must be considered within the broader context of the funding of education generally and of postschool education and training specifically, in relation to policy goals and in the realistic economic and fiscal context.

Last year’s student protests raised important issues, many of which we do not differ with, although we may debate about funding models and the pace of implementation. The government’s commitment is evidenced by the R16.2bn that was reprioritised from across government over a three-year period to compensate following the announcement that there would be no fee increase for 2016. These funds were given to compensate for the loss of income to universities and to fund more poor students through NSFAS.

Perhaps more important, President Jacob Zuma established a Presidential Commission to search for long-term solutions. The commission, which will report next year, is specifically also mandated to look into the feasibility of fee-free higher education and training, within the context of government policy. The goal is to enable South Africans to access higher education regardless of origins, financial circumstances, or the financial standing of their families.

The commission is tasked to advise on systemic, longterm, sustainable measures to reconstitute the entire post-school education and training funding system. It should be supported in its vital task by everyone with an interest in the sector, including students, parents and higher education institutions.

Until its report, universities must continue functioning, and must continue to transform. I am therefore currently consulting stakeholders on the complex matter of university fees for 2017.

The Council on Higher Education (CHE) has, at my request, advised on fee increases for 2017. The CHE has argued for a CPI based adjustment, while some student organisations want no increase at all, and many university leaders say 8 percent is essential. A case is also being made for a sliding fee scale.

These may appear to be irreconcilable positions, but I remain convinced that consensus can be found.

I am talking to student leaders, vice chancellors, chairs of council, and many others on fees for next year. Views are wide ranging, indicating that whatever solution is found to the challenges of next year’s university funding will require an inclusive process and an understanding of the challenges facing students and institutions alike, and patience until the commission is able to present long-term solutions.

While consulting stakeholders, I have been reminded of the hardships faced by individual students whose families cannot afford university fees. Conversely, the universities have reiterated they are under severe financial stress following years in which state spending has been declining.

The effects of last year’s moratorium on fee adjustments, and extra costs imposed by insourcing added to these challenges. While we must sustain the ability of our students to stay at university and gain skills and knowledge, we must ensure there is no further erosion of substance at our universities, still the best and most productive on the continent. Our university system has to continue functioning, producing skills for the economy, and empowering young South Africans and students from elsewhere, particularly SADC.

At the same time, all in the sector are calling on the private sector to increase bursary funding as an investment in the future.

Of course, ultimate authority for determining fees resides with University councils. I have suggested to their leadership that the system will be best served by a national approach.

Whatever the final fee decision for 2017, poor students will not be affected, as they will continue to be supported by NSFAS. Many students from well-off families and those on full company bursaries would not be disadvantaged by a fee adjustment. Nevertheless, we are aware of the plight of students not covered by NSFAS who struggle to pay for their studies, which is part of our discussions.

Some of the protests led to violence and destruction of property last year. I urge all stakeholders to engage constructively. As we, together with students, universities, and colleagues in other departments apply our minds to the complex task of balancing the range of competing needs, we call on everyone to contribute positively and to ensure universities are able to continue doing their vital job while solutions are found.