Nzimande urges students to go back to class
The Higher Education and Training Minister Blade Nzimande on Friday said government is on the same side of students who are demanding free tertiary education for those who can't afford it.
Nzimande was speaking at a briefing with ministers in the security cluster.
He told journalists they are doing everything in their power to restore the academic programme at universities, especially given that it's near the end of the academic year.
"We think that the main issues they are raising, they can be back in class and be continuing engagement with management or with government, for that matter. That's why we are saying with the President's judicial commission of inquiry doing its work, let's give this commission a chance to find a lasting solution to this matter," Nzimande said.
State Security Minister David Mahlobo, meanwhile, said his department has gathered intelligence about the violence at universities and are looking into a number of incidents.
"The issues of students are genuine and this government is responding, it's trying to listen. We are also sharing notes with them to say there are certain elements who are exploiting this thing, who are now no longer interested in supporting students," Mahlobo said.
Police Minister Nathi Nhleko urged communities and parents to work with government to prevent students engaging in acts of criminality.
Video by Samkelo Maseko