Wits University responds to student hunger strike over financial exclusion

Wits University management has assured that it is working closely with students to ensure that all those who qualify to continue their studies are registered. This follows a student-led hunger strike that began four days ago, prompted by concerns over financial exclusion due to historical debt.

Many protesting students have been unable to register for the 2025 academic year because of outstanding debt. The university, however, has stated that it is actively assisting qualifying students to access funding opportunities in order to resolve the crisis.

Current Registration Status

The institution announced that 95% of its students, approximately 37,000 in total, have already registered for the academic year. However, those who remain unregistered typically have debts exceeding R10,000. Wits University has implemented a policy requiring these students to pay at least 50% of their outstanding balance before they can complete their registration.

Collaborating to Raise Funds

Wits University spokesperson Shirona Patel explained that the institution is actively working with the Student Representative Council (SRC) to raise and allocate funds to help students in need.

“What we have done is we have worked with the SRC, and they have raised R2.5 million in the last two weeks. We have matched those funds, so there’s about R5 million which can still be allocated to students in need,” Patel said.

In addition to this, the Wits Hardship Fund is nearing the completion of its allocations. The fund, worth approximately R100 million, is aimed at helping students cover registration fees and emergency accommodation costs.

Wits Hardship Fund and Financial Support

The Wits Hardship Fund was established to provide financial assistance to students who are at risk of exclusion due to unpaid fees. Eligible students can receive up to R50,000 each, which can be used to cover tuition arrears, registration fees, or temporary housing arrangements for those without stable accommodation.

The university hopes that this financial support will alleviate the burden faced by many students and ensure they can continue their studies without interruption.

Protest Background and Student Demands

The hunger strike was organized by students who are demanding a more inclusive approach to addressing financial exclusion. Protesters argue that historical debt has left many students in limbo, unable to register despite making academic progress.

Several students have voiced concerns that even with financial aid, they are still unable to meet the minimum payment threshold required to register. Many are also calling for a review of the university’s policies on debt repayment and registration fees.

SRC representatives have expressed appreciation for the university’s efforts but insist that more needs to be done. “We acknowledge the funds raised and matched by the university, but we urge the management to consider a full suspension of financial exclusions for students who meet academic requirements,” one SRC member said.

University’s Commitment to Resolving the Crisis

Patel reiterated Wits University’s commitment to resolving the registration issues and emphasized that no student who qualifies for financial aid would be left without support.

“We remain dedicated to working with our students and ensuring that no one is left behind due to financial constraints,” Patel added. “Our goal is to give every qualifying student the opportunity to continue their education.”

Call for Broader Support

While Wits is taking significant steps to address the financial challenges faced by students, both management and the SRC have called on government and private sector stakeholders to increase funding for higher education. The rising cost of tertiary education has put many students at risk of financial exclusion, and broader systemic support is needed to ensure long-term solutions.

Looking Ahead

As the academic year progresses, Wits University will continue to allocate funds and explore additional support mechanisms for students facing financial hardship. The institution’s collaboration with the SRC and its ongoing fundraising efforts are seen as positive steps toward alleviating the immediate crisis.

Students are encouraged to engage with university support services and apply for any remaining funds from the Hardship Fund to ensure they can register and continue their education without further obstacles.