Languages: 
Walter Sisulu University’sConvocation Executive (WSU Convex) hosted a national dialogue at the East London International Convention Centre on Saturday to address student debt and sustainable solutions through universities, government, businesses, and students.
As of December 2022, student and graduate debt at the university totaled R1.4 billion.
By the end of 2023, contributions and commitment from businesses, government entities, SETAs, institutional stakeholders and philanthropic individuals had amounted to R75 million, aiding hundreds of graduates and students in obtaining their certificates.
Despite these efforts, approximately 23,000 WSU graduates and students still owed the university at the beginning of 2023, with the debt remaining close to R1.4 billion.
The dialogue featured notable figures such as Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, Vice Chancellor Professor Rushiella Songca, celebrity moderator Tshepiso Makwetla from SABC, and Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality Executive Mayor, Councillor Princess Faku who emphasized the need to decolonize education and eliminate student debt in South Africa.
Discussing the economic challenges of post-colonial Africa, Faku highlighted the significant debt inherited from apartheid.
"The ANC-led government inherited a technically bankrupt country with high inflation and a debt of 28 billion pounds," she said.
She called for reparations from former colonial powers, pointing out the injustices suffered during apartheid, and further highlighted the government's commitment to education and health, noting the increase in black student enrollment from 160,000 in 1994 to 1.2 million in 2024.
She highlighted the growth in student funding through NSFAS, now a bursary fund since 2018.
"NSFAS plays a significant role in reducing financial exclusion, hunger, and improving student life," she said.
Recognizing Africa Day, Faku reminded attendees of their heritage and expressed pride in the leadership at WSU, where both the Vice Chancellor and Chancellor are women.
She called for a holistic approach to decolonization, extending to education, clothing, food, institutions, and language.
Faku urged the private sector to fulfill their corporate social responsibility in funding education and encouraged attendees to vote in the upcoming elections on 29 May 2024.
By Yolanda Palezweni
