Cabinet has sent their sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the Mthokozisi Ntumba who was shot on Thursday during a protest at Wits University.  Minister of Higher Education Blade Nzimande says he has directed that the Wits University Council, the Wits Management and requested the relevant Law enforcement authorities agencies to provide the cabinet with an explanation on what caused this tragedy and to take whatever steps to ensure justice is done and appropriate responsibility is accorded. 

Nzimande has also appealed for calm in institutions of higher learning. He said where there are matters of dispute and grievances, structures are in place for SRCs and institutional management to engage on, and he further urges that student leaders and institutional leaders make use of these mechanisms to resolve problems amicably. 

"We cannot afford at this time to endure disruption to the 2021 academic year, which is already starting later than usual due to the extended 2020 academic year and the delayed NSC examinations. "Said Nzimande 

Nzimande also gave an update on  NSFAS and said the bursary will now be able to release funds for new students qualifying for NSFAS bursary support.