South African President Jacob Zuma on Friday abandoned proposed hikes to university fees after days of protests culminating in police firing stun grenades at students outside government headquarters.
Some demonstrators tried to force their way towards the Union Buildings in the capital Pretoria, tearing down a security fence, setting fire to portable toilets and hurling bricks at police lines in chaotic scenes.
South African President Jacob Zuma on Friday abandoned proposed hikes to university fees after days of protests culminating in police firing stun grenades at students outside government headquarters.
Some demonstrators tried to force their way towards the Union Buildings in the capital Pretoria, tearing down a security fence, setting fire to portable toilets and hurling bricks at police lines in chaotic scenes.
Universities around the country have been closed over the last week as students protested against the proposed fee rises, which they say would mean poorer black youths are unable to study for degrees.
The issue of education fees has ignited widespread frustration over a lack of opportunities for young people since the end of apartheid, worsened by a weakening economy and high unemployment.
Source: Today
