As by Fire: The End of the South African University

by Jonathan Jansen

What are the real roots of the student protests of 2015 and 2016? Is it actually about fees? Why did the protests turn violent? Where is the government while the buildings burn? Former Free State University vice-chancellor Jonathan Jansen delves into the unprecedented disruption of universities that caught South Africa by surprise. In frank interviews with eleven of the VCs most affected, he examines the forces at work, why the protests escalate into chaos, and what is driving – and exasperating – our youth. This urgent and necessary book gives us an insider view of the crisis, tells us why the conflict will not go away and what it means for the future of our universities.

346 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 12, 2017

About the author

Professor Jonathan Jansen is the Vice Chancellor of the University of the Free State, South Africa, where he has earned a formidable reputation for transformation and for a deep commitment to reconciliation in communities living with the heritage of apartheid. He is an educationalist, a former Dean of Education at the University of Pretoria, South Africa, who holds an impressive collection of degrees and awards, including the position as President of the South African Institute of Race Relations. He was born in the Western Cape, South Africa, and has lived in various parts of South Africa and in the United States. He is married with two children.

Reviews

[Jimmy Volmink · Rating 4 out of 5]

Important read

An illuminating account and analysis of recent student protests at South African universities from the inside of the furnace. Parts of the book, especially the last chapter, felt quite dark. It would have been good to be offered some viable solutions.

[Luke Mckend · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating recent history of the struggles happening on South African campuses from the perspective of the people who run them.

[Simphiwe Yana · Rating 5 out of 5]

It shows how we could prevent the present danger to our 25 public universities and TVET colleges.