By Lindokuhle Malatsi
JOHANNESBURG – There wasn’t any difference at Wits University at the beginning of the academic year with hundreds of students struggling to register as a result of outstanding fees of the previous years. That felt like a threat to their future.
Like many other universities in the country – a significant number of students at Wits owed substantial amounts in what came to be known as ‘historical debts’ accumulated over a period of time.
“We understand the financial pressures faced by our students, and we’re committed to finding solutions”, the university’s spokesperson said. “However, we also need to ensure the sustainability of the institution”, she continued.
Affected students were really frustrated, “I’ve been trying to register for weeks, but I’m stuck because of a debt from 2018”, said one student, who wished to remain anonymous. “It’s not fair that I’m being penalised for something that’s not entirely my fault.”
The university has implemented various measures to assist students, including repayment plans and financial aid. However, many students feel that these measures are not enough.
“The payment plans are not realistic for students who are already struggling financially”, said another student. “We need more flexible options, such as debt forgiveness or reduced fees.” The Student Representative Council (SRC) has been advocating for a more comprehensive solution. “We urge the university to reconsider its policies on historical debts and explore more flexible options for students”, said the SRC President.
In recent years, Wits University has taken steps to address the issue of historical debts. In 2020, the university introduced a debt relief programme, which provided financial assistance to students with outstanding debts. However, many students feel that the programme did not go far enough.
Accordingly, the university administration and the SRC were working together to find a solution. The issue of historical debts is not unique to Wits University. Many universities in South Africa are facing similar challenges. However, Wits University has a reputation for being a progressive and inclusive institution, and many students feel that it has a responsibility to find a more equitable solution.
As one student put it that “we’re not asking for a free ride. We’re asking for a fair chance to succeed.”
This financial crisis is ubiquitous with most students where they’re set to face uncertainty in their future regardless of how one is determined in their studies.
Source: Wits University
