Students demand answers amid broken promises
Phatsimo Kapeng | Friday April 3, 2026 11:56
Allen Mosiwa
As students, we are not happy with how the Minister of Higher Education is handling our issues. We feel ignored while he continues to enjoy a lavish lifestyle, leaving students in deep pain and struggle. We expected the minister and the government to consider students before introducing such drastic transport fare increases, knowing very well that we already cannot afford the current rates. Students are struggling more than they realise. We plead with them to listen and respond to our challenges because we supported this government with high hopes, based on the promises made during the election campaigns. Our academic performance is declining every day due to these hardships; we cannot even afford internet access, which is essential for research and completing projects.
Obonye Mogapi
We are here as students, putting aside all political differences, united to make our voices heard. Over the past year, we have made several attempts at writing letters and seeking engagement, but nothing has come of it. It has always been promise after promise, and we are now fed up.
Today, we demand answers, not the usual reassurances. We will not leave until we are given a tangible solution. The government cannot increase transport fares while we are still waiting for the long-promised P2500.00 allowance. We will continue to stand up for ourselves until they understand that we voted for them to serve us.
Eric KarabeloStudents have been petitioning the government since last year regarding the promised increase in tertiary allowances. The frustration we see today stems from inconsistent communication. Last year, during a rally in Tsabong welcoming Tokyo Modise, the President clearly stated that by April 2026, students would begin receiving the P2500.00 allowance. However, Minister Maele recently stated that there are no funds and that they are still trying to find a solution. At the same time, transport fares have been increased. Students feel dismissed and unheard, constantly being redirected without resolution. What is happening now is the result of prolonged frustration, so students feel they have no one advocating for them, and this situation was bound to escalate.
Nevill SecheleWe have gathered here in solidarity to demonstrate our struggles, desperation, and frustration. The government has an obligation to support students, as per its commitments. Following the release of the Government Gazette announcing transport fare increases, students felt compelled to act. Life has already been difficult for both on-campus and off-campus students. Many are unable to meet basic needs, and the current allowance of P1900.00 is simply not enough. Some students even miss classes because they cannot afford transport. Statistics show that a significant portion of voters are youth, particularly tertiary students. Today, we send a strong and united message to the government: we demand attention from Minister Maele and President Duma Boko. More importantly, we demand clear answers, accountability, and immediate action to address the challenges we are facing.