Introduction
The #FeesMustFall movement of 2015-2016 was a pivotal moment in South Africa’s history. Students across the country united to demand free and decolonized education, shedding light on the financial struggles many face in accessing higher learning. Nearly a decade later, the movement’s echoes persist, as countless students continue to face the same challenges — limited funding, overwhelming debt, and the unattainable dream of tertiary education.
The Funding Crisis in Higher Education
For many students, the journey to tertiary education ends before it begins, paused by financial barriers. Despite the gains made during the #FeesMustFall protests, such as the increased National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding, the system remains overstretched. The demand for financial aid far exceeds what is available, leaving countless deserving students without support. This gap disproportionately affects students from low-income households, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality. Those who manage to secure admission often face financial exclusion when they cannot pay registration fees or settle outstanding debts. The result is a growing number of students forced to drop out, despite their academic potential.
The Burden of Student Debt
For students who do make it to university, the weight of student debt can be crippling. Many owe universities large sums by the time they graduate – if they manage to graduate at all. These debts not only hinder their ability to continue their studies but also limit their post-graduation opportunities, as they struggle to secure employment while burdened with financial obligations. The problem is intensified by high unemployment rates, particularly among the youth. For many graduates, securing a job that enables them to repay their debts and support their families feels like an impossible task. This creates a brutal cycle of economic struggle, with education supposedly the key to upward mobility becoming a double-edged sword.
A Struggle That Remains Relevant
The challenges faced by today’s students highlight the unfinished business of the #FeesMustFall movement. While the protests brought attention to the crisis, the need for more funding for higher education remains unresolved. The promise of free education for all has yet to materialize, leaving a generation of young South Africans disappointed. The pandemic has further complicated these struggles. Many families have experienced job losses, reducing their ability to support their children’s education. Universities, too, are under financial strain, which has led to fee increases and stricter measures against students with outstanding balances.
Conclusion: The Way Forward
The current landscape demands urgent action from all officials like the government, universities, and private sectors. The government must prioritize sustainable funding models for higher education, ensuring that financial aid is accessible to all who need it. Universities should explore innovative ways to support students, such as income-contingent loans or partnerships with the private sector to subsidize costs. For students, community-led initiatives and advocacy remain essential. The collective voice that fuelled the #FeesMustFall movement can still drive meaningful change which requires unity and strategic action.
Social Media: http://www.linkedin.com/in/oramokgatle30b
