University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa

-Naadiya Adams

The Minister of Higher Education Blade Nzimande says universities will remain open while exams are postponed for the next two weeks.

During a briefing on Wednesday, following the move to level 4 lockdown, the minister said all higher education institutions will not close on an official basis. Rather, all in-person classes will be suspended while online learning will continue for at least the next 14 days.

Under the adjusted level 4 lockdown, regulations pertaining to graduations, student accommodation, events and classes have all been amended while the decision to take classes online remains in place indefinitely says the Nzimande.

Those who reside on campus are encouraged to remain at the student residence, which will remain open.

“As it is not safe for students to travel back home at this time and it is necessary for students to retain access to campus and residence-based wi-fi,” says Ndzimande.

He says universities are expected to manage their on campus residences in terms of the necessary health protocols.

“Under no circumstances should any mass social or other activities take place in residences or on campus during this period,” says the minister.

Nzimande says the transition to online learning will take place as officials consult with vice-chancellors across the country.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (Nsfas) has ordered 170 000 laptops to date says Minister Nzimande, while 90 060 have already touched down in South Africa, which will slowly bridge the technology gap at various institutions.

Watch the full video here:

[Watch Live] Minister Blade Nzimande briefs media on measures to ensure compliance to regulations in the fight against the spread of COVID-19 Coronavirus in Post School Education and Training Sector https://t.co/nPof3NyFYX

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) June 30, 2021