I am currently an undergraduate student at Rhodes University. The recent announcement of the new fees protocol for the academic year 2027 has thrown my future, and the future of many other students, into alarming uncertainty. This protocol mandates that students with outstanding balances must either settle 50%  before students can register for their next year of study or of their outstanding debt or commit to monthly instalments of no less than R3,000. 

The harsh financial demands place a significant financial burden on students who are already struggling to meet the cost of tuition, accommodation, food, transport, learning materials and other essential expense. Furthermore, the demands of this protocol do not consider the varied economic circumstances of students.  It has left many of us uncertain of our future as university was our key to success and escaping the financial barriers we face in our homes. However, the current fees protocol threatens to undermine this mission by placing an insurmountable financial barrier between students and their education.

We do not oppose  the University's legitimate need to manage its finances or to recover outstanding student debt. Our concern is that the current approach places many students in a position where they must choose between meeting substantial historical financial obligations and continuing their education.

Education is a right, not a privilege. Asking us to pay such steep fees in one go or within unreasonable payment plans could result in many capable and deserving students dropping out.  As recent statistics indicate, over 30% of South African households are under significant financial strain,  living below the poverty line - such policy changes only exacerbate this challenge.

We urge Rhodes University to revise this fees protocol to ensure that it is both fair and supportive of its student body. 

By signing this petition, you stand with current and prospective students to encourage Rhodes University to reconsider a more inclusive and equitable system. Together, we can make sure that higher education remains accessible to all and that no student is forced to abandon their dreams due to financial constraints. Sign this petition now to urge Rhodes University to rethink and revise its fees protocol.