Vice-Chancellors: ‘Funding of public higher education institutions is in crisis mode’

As the 2025 academic year begins, students, parents and public higher education institutions are grappling with anxiety and uncertainty regarding the prospects of a smooth start. Historically, the start of the academic year has often been marred by instability and disruptions, which may appear to pit students against universities. However, the core issue lies in the declining funding for public higher education in its entirety. Students and their families face persistent financial challenges, including unresolved university debt, the defunding of some National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)-supported students, inadequate funding for those outside the NSFAS framework and a shortage of suitable student accommodation. This time of year, forces many families to confront a critical question: how will they finance university studies? Phemelo speaks to Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Rhodes University, Professor Sizwe Mabizela.