Student protests over fee hike continue in South Africa

University students in South Africa continued with their protests that began Tuesday against a decision to hike tuition fees by up to 8 percent come 2017.

The demonstrations, on their second day has prompted the closure of various universities across the country as a result of violent clashes between security forces and students.

Violent protests were witnessed at the Witwatersrand University where the dissatisfied students hurled rocks into one of the institution’s building.

“We deserve to get free education now. Remember this was promised 22 years ago, it was in the freedom charter, it was one of the most three pillars of the ANC and the reason why they promised is because they saw it feasible, that’s it’s possible for them to implement free education,” said Cebinkosi Khumalo, a member of the student council.

“Our resolution is moratorium on fee increment until we recognise like free, quality, decolonized education here and we want it now,” said Thando Mntambo, who is a student.

Authorities in the country have however said they cannot afford the free education the students are demanding for.

Last year’s fees must fall protest movement led President Jacob Zuma declaring a zero percent increase in fees in 2016.