People’s Revolution criticises 100% public university fee hike
The People’s Revolution has strongly criticised the government’s decision to approve a 100 percent increase in tuition fees at Malawi’s five public universities, describing the move as a major setback for access to higher education and an added burden on struggling families.
In a statement signed by its leader, Jani Grey Kasunda, the movement said the fee hike comes at a time when many Malawians are already grappling with high living costs, inflation and stagnant incomes.
Under the new fees, annual tuition for generic undergraduate programmes at the University of Malawi, LUANAR, Mzuzu University, MUST and MUBAS has increased from K650,000 to K1.3 million. At KUHeS, tuition has risen from K1 million to K2 million, while a new K60,000 medical insurance fee has also been introduced.
The People’s Revolution argued that although public universities are facing funding challenges, shifting the financial burden to students and their families is not a sustainable solution.
The movement cited concerns raised by the Civil Society Education Coalition (CSEC), which warned that the increase could prevent thousands of academically qualified but financially disadvantaged students from accessing higher education. It also referred to concerns from Citizens for Justice and Equity, which described the decision as insensitive given the country’s current economic challenges.
According to the statement, government funding for public universities remains below the institutions’ operational requirements, while the existing Higher Education Students’ Loans and Grants programme is insufficient to meet students’ needs following the fee increase.
Beyond the tuition hike, the People’s Revolution also criticised recent government tax measures, including increases in Value Added Tax (VAT), changes to Pay As You Earn (PAYE) tax rates, the introduction of the Minimum Alternate Tax and taxation of residential rental income. The movement said these policies have contributed to rising prices of essential goods and increased pressure on households and businesses.
It further noted that many businesses continue to face foreign exchange shortages, high production costs, limited access to credit and fuel supply disruptions, affecting economic growth and employment.
The movement has called on the government to suspend the university fee increase and engage students, parents, university authorities and civil society organisations in consultations. It also urged the government to review its tax policies, address the foreign exchange crisis and implement measures aimed at improving the welfare of Malawians.
Kasunda expressed hope that President Arthur Peter Mutharika would intervene to ensure higher education remains accessible to all deserving students, regardless of their financial circumstances.
The People’s Revolution said it would continue advocating for students, workers, families and businesses affected by the country’s economic challenges.
