President Jacob Zuma has urged protesting students to return to class, saying there will be consequences for those who act criminally.<\/p>\n
“Government is committed to do everything possible to progressively make higher education more affordable and free for the poor. I would want to make a call to let the students go back to study,” Zuma said at a higher education summit on Monday.<\/p>\n
Zuma added that he had instructed law enforcement agencies to arrest criminal elements who were hijacking student protests.<\/p>\n
He condemned violence and the destruction of property, saying the resolution taken last year not to increase fees was made through strategic dialogue.<\/p>\n
He said the 8% cap on university fee increases announced by Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande also came about through strategic dialogue with stakeholders.<\/p>\n
“The 0% fee increase for 2016 was a decision made through listening and talking. The summit is doing what South Africa does best – to meet and talk and find solutions. Together we find lasting solutions,” he said.<\/p>\n
Zuma said an inquiry into higher education must be given a chance to find a way out of the impasse over fees.<\/p>\n
“Work is being done to find solutions,” he said.<\/p>\n
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