By Celani Sikhakhane
Students at Amajuba TVET College in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, angry at not having received their money from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), stoned Higher Education and Training Minister Blade Nzimande’s convoy as he drove into the college.
Fourteen students were arrested and police dispersed the protesters. Some students were later treated in hospital for injuries from rubber bullets.
The incident took place on Friday after Nzimande arrived at the college to speak to leaders.
Nzimande has been under fire from students all over the country who are struggling to get money from NSFAS.
Allegations have spread that Nzimande has corruptly benefited from the funds, but he has denied the allegations and claimed there is a witch-hunt against him.
KZN SAPS spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said: “Madadeni police have arrested 14 suspects aged between 19 and 28 for public violence. They appeared on Monday in the Madadeni Magistrate’s Court. On Friday 5 April, a group of students allegedly stopped the Minister of Higher Education from entering the college.
“They allegedly threw stones, however, no injuries were reported,” said Netshiunda.
The college’s communications unit failed to respond to a request for comment before this article was published.
The Higher Education Ministry’s communications unit couldn’t be reached for comments as the cellphones of both spokespersons went to voicemail.
Pictured above: Higher Education Minister Dr Blade Nzimande was met with an angry reaction from students when he visited Amajuba TVET College.
Image source: Supplied
