EDITOR – The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry is perturbed by the stand-off between students and university officials on the subject of affordability of fees.
While we have the right to freedom of expression and association as enshrined in our Constitution, we should do son within the ambit of the law, order and respect for human dignity.
As a country routed in constructive engagement and resolution of our differences through dialogue, we want to encourage those in higher learning to find each other through peaceful negotiated settlements.
As a business Chamber, we have vested interest in protecting the human capital base as the bedrock of competitiveness that drives the South African industries to greater heights. It is for this reason therefore that the Chamber calls upon all business members to engage in social corporate responsibility programmes that make an investment impact in this skills base, in order to lay a foundation for a lasting legacy for our youth who are custodians of South Africa's future.
The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry has resolved to start a bursary fund to support deserving students in pursuit of higher learning. We invite members of the business fraternity to make a generous pledge towards this fund.
Contact Justice Matarutse on matarutsej@durbanchamber.co.za or 031 331 1000 to contribute towards the private sector bursary fund.
It is our core belief that when our country is in crisis, the call for all social partners including business to meeting of minds becomes a pressing imperative for our country.
Please let's be part of a sustainable solution.
Zeph Ndlovu
President – Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry
