Unisa Expert Highlights Funding System Issues After Rhodes University Protests

A Unisa business school expert identified that resolving student funding challenges at Rhodes University requires improving the system rather than increasing financial contributions. Dr Simphiwe Madikizela, a senior lecturer at Unisa’s Graduate School of Business Leadership (SBL), emphasized that poor planning and inefficient processes prevent qualified students from receiving funds.

Rhodes University reported rising student debt levels, creating strain on its capacity to sustain teaching quality, research infrastructure, and staff retention. The institution cited unsustainable debt growth as a critical factor affecting its operational stability.

Protests at Rhodes University in Makhanda led to 13 student arrests under a proposed fee payment protocol requiring 50% debt clearance by the end of 2026 for 2027 academic enrollment.

Dr Madikizela argued that student funding failures stem from systemic inefficiencies, not insufficient resources.