Late grants cause students to strike
Students of the Mlumati FET College in the town, rioted on Monday May 11 for the second year in succession, about what seemed to be an prolonged problem with the government and Department of Education.
KAMHLUSHWA – In 2014, according to reports, students also disrupted classes, ran on the roofs of the buildings and some had to receive stitches after being hit by flying objects.
This year the problem was compounded by the fact that the local SAPS had been called in immediately as female lecturers were locked in a classroom, but it was alleged that they did not answer their phones and upon arriving at the college, had no idea of what was transpiring.
Because of the distances some of these students travel, a governmental grant for transport and housing expenses had been provided.
However, due to policy changes and late payment, these grants had not been forthcoming which made it hard for the students to continue with their studies.
According to Ms Mariette Preddy, Democratic Alliance (DA) councillor in Malalane, this problem was not going to go away overnight as it was a prolonged issue of promises not being met on time.
Previously, these grants were only paid in August of a given year, leaving the students with no money for transport and living expenses.
With recent policy changes, it is now expected from them to first pay and then claim back their expenses. These students are from disadvantaged backgrounds and do not have the financial means to pay for their studies and additional expenses up front.
Preddy told Corridor Gazette that the DA would immediately embark on an investigation and the relevant minister would be contacted with regard to how to successfully solve the problem.
