Deputy Chair, hon Minister, let me just say this: On countless occasions our government has identified education as a key factor and one of the primary building blocks of a strong and fully functional economy. The current status of higher education and skills development and training of the less fortunate factions of our society adds to the fruitless work opportunities, lack of job creation and high levels of economic and social uncertainty.
Serious government intervention is crucial to expanding rural opportunities for youth development. The absence of proper and much-needed higher education facilities in rural areas is fast becoming a crippling economic problem. It deepens the demand for education among poor parents and adds to the vicious cycle of poverty and social injustice.
We welcome the Minister's comments on financial assistance for students who cannot afford the exorbitant tuition fees. We also welcome the finances being made available for refurbishing previously disadvantaged tertiary institutions, as the Minister mentioned in his speech.
The Department of Science and Technology opened its 36th dedicated centre in the Northern Cape in a bid to increase the exposure to science and raise interest among the youth in the province. The lack of a university in the province, along with previous inadequate funding and tertiary education facilities, has made it near impossible for youth from disadvantaged backgrounds to participate in the increasing education in the field of science.
Hon Minister, I just need to ask you this question while you are here: Can you inform this House how much progress has been made with regard to the establishment of a university in the Northern Cape?
The World Bank, which granted the funding through its Clean Technology Fund, will finance a 100 MW solar power plant in Upington in the Northern Cape province, as it has been further identified as an internationally preferred destination for renewable energy investment.
This is a clear indication that new industries and sectors are on the increase. It is only fitting that government invests in erecting a much- needed tertiary institution, where youngsters from the Northern Cape and surrounding areas can study and be trained in the industries being introduced to and concentrated in this province.
Let me just say that I also welcome the amount that you mentioned for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, but some of the members who are here are not rich and wish to study as well. [Laughter.] Thank you. Ke a leboga. Ngiyabonga. Baie dankie. [Applause.]