Rhodes University and SRC reach agreement on student fee disputes

Rhodes University and its Student Representative Council (SRC) have reached concessions regarding the institution’s 2027 student fee payment arrangements. Following discussions between university management and student representatives, Vice-Chancellor Professor Sizwe Mabizela stated that the meeting resulted in several compromises intended to address student financial difficulties without jeopardizing the university’s financial stability.

The agreement follows a week of protests concerning how the university handles outstanding fees, which disrupted campus activities and led to legal action. The university previously approached the Eastern Cape High Court for an order to restrict demonstrations, resulting in an interim interdict granted on 30 September. At least 13 students were arrested during recent protests near the 1820 Settlers National Monument.