The Ministry affirms the centrality of free political activities in our Institutions of Higher Learning.

The Ministry has been receiving information of attempts at some Institutions of Higher Learning to blunt students’ political rights of affiliation by blocking access to certain legitimate political websites within campuses.

The Ministry once again takes this opportunity to reaffirm the centrality of free political pursuit and activity in our institutions of Higher Learning, consistent with the provisions of our Constitution. This right is guaranteed and cannot be overridden by any authorities at any of our institutions.

We need to emphasize that our students are free to join any political formations, and to conduct political activities in a responsible and accountable manner. Neither can staff members at institution be prevented from trade union activities. Any form of preventing these rights, including any form of censorship or being denied access to information in this regard, is illegal.

Institutions of Higher Learning are public Institutions and therefore belong to South Africa as a whole. They are the microcosm of a democratic society that tolerates and generates the best of social relations, and should remain so.

Issued by Khaye Nkwanyana, Director: Media Liaison Officer, DHET, 1 October 2015