The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training wishes to congratulate the class of 2011 and wishes them well on their new journey to tertiary education.
The Committee has noted with concern the sad events of yesterday that resulted in the death of a parent of a prospective student at the University of Johannesburg. In light of the exponential growth in our country, it is very clear that there is a need to expand the capacity at our institutions of higher learning. The Committee hopes that universities will strive to accommodate as many of the 180 000 prospective students as possible.
Students are urged to realise the importance of applying to universities in time to avoid challenges caused by the rush of admission when the year begins. Students should also avail themselves for the opportunities offered by Further Education and Training Colleges, particularly in areas where there is scarcity of skills, in order to enhance the productivity of the country’s economy.
The Committee wishes to express its sincere sympathy and condolences to the family of the deceased parent of the prospective student and hopes for a speedy recovery to those injured during the stampede.
Enquiries:
Faith Kwaza
Parliamentary Communication Services
Tel: 021 403 8062
Cell: 072 122 0371
E-mail: fkwaza@parliament.gov.za
