Varsity students set to return to campus today

Thousands of university and college students are expected back at campuses today following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement that the country would move to lockdown alert Level 1.

This was revealed by the Minister of Higher Education Dr Blade Nzimande who said the students’ return would be subject to restrictions linked to risk assessments.

Nzimande also said tertiary institutions will now be able to accommodate 50% of students at residences.

He said a tender to supply and deliver laptops to NSFAS students was re-advertised and will be rewarded by 31 October.

Applications for NSFAS funding will now close on 31 November.

He said universities have been implementing their own return strategies in line with their teaching and learning and campus readiness plans.

The total number of Covid-19 cases reported by institutions stands at 1 979 infections – 1 215 being staff members and 764 are students.

Nzimande added it was anticipated the teaching and learning programme would advance better, with catch-up programmes for struggling students.

dailyvoice.co.za