Chakwera backs #FeesMustFall campaign of University of Malawi students

Leader of Opposition Lazarus Chakwera has put his weight behind the University of Malawi students who are demanding the slashing of college fees.

Chakwera said at a news conference that the government should listen and reduce the tuition fees.

“There is still room for discussions. I have met the chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Education to see how we can end this stand off between the students and the University of Malawi Council and the government on one hand,” he said.

Added Chakwera: “I personally have a desire to see to it that this comes to an end. We have the whole nation at stake here.”

This comes a mid a wave of violent protests in the constituent colleges of the University of Malawi as students at Chancellor College, Polytechnic and Kamuzu College of Nursing took to the streets to demonstrate against the fee hikes.

They argue that the hiking of the fees is unreasonable and inconsiderate taking into account the high cost of living and the dwindling economy.

The students have since set aside August 4 for nationwide protests to force the government slash the fees.

University of Malawi spokesperson Peter Mitunda has however ruled out slashing the fees, saying the university can only offer quality education if it has adequate resources.

“Those who feel cannot afford the fees should contact the Higher Education Loans Board,” he said.

Close to 30 students were arrested and are now on court bail following the violent protests.

Most of them have been charged with conduct likely to cause breach of peace charge.