Zuma bemoans loss of student s life

PRESIDENT Jacob Zuma, has sent his condolences to the family of Tshwane University of Technology student leader Lesego Benjamin Phehla, who lost his life after reportedly being hit by a car on Thursday during the #FeesMustFall protest outside one of the institution s campuses.

’ We are very saddened by the loss “of this young life in such a horrible manner. We extend our deepest “ , condolences to his family and may his soul rest in peace,” said Zuma.

The president further emphasised that government supports the students call for access to

’ education, for the poor. We agree that university “education is expensive for the poor. We agree that students who cannot afford to pay must be assisted. This is why government has been “doing all it can to provide support through loans and bursaries, since 1994. We want to work with students, parents and all stakeholders to find solutions. A ministerial task team has been “established and will engage stakeholders to find solutions, including students. We also urge students and stakeholders to engage the judicial commission of inquiry into higher education funding and make presentations to help the country find solutions. Let us discuss how the goal we all agree on, can be achieved,” said Zuma.

The president has implored the students to return to class. Importantly, students should not “lose the 2016 academic year. They should return to class and “work with government, parents and other stakeholders to find solutions and we are certain that working together, we can build a great future as we care about the students

’ future, we care about them,” he said. –