A meeting between government and vice chancellors of public universities has resulted in agreement on the need for the consolidation and coordination of efforts to address immediate challenges and medium-term plans for mutual benefit between both entities.

The meeting was held on Tuesday, led by Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni and Minister of Higher Education and Training Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, with the coordination of Universities South Africa (USAF) and the support of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

The meeting discussed the impact of the US Executive Orders and tariffs on universities, in particular research funding and possible ways forward.

Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) pointed out that the meeting also discussed the social legitimacy of public universities on public discourse for national interest and the importance of international scholars and universities of goodwill partnerships.

The meeting acknowledged universities as critical stakeholders in addressing challenges facing the country.

The GCIS noted that Deputy Minister of Finance Dr David Masondo briefed the meeting about key developments on the 2025 National Budget and proposed allocations to support the higher education sector.

Follow-up engagements will be organised to deal with progress and further actions.