The National Assembly will debate higher education transformation in the country on Tuesday, following closely on the heels of a nationwide protest against fee increases.

The debate, which is expected to be attended by various student leaders, will be opened by Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande.

Widespread student demonstrations were sparked two weeks ago when Wits University students blockaded the entrance to the Johannesburg university’s campus after the institution indicated it would raise fees by 10.5% for 2016.

The protest eventually spread to several institutions around the country.

On Wednesday, police fired stun grenades to disperse protesters who stormed the Parliamentary precinct while Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene was delivering his mid-term budget.

Police and protesters also clashed at the Union Buildings on Friday when a small group become violent.

President Jacob Zuma announced on Friday that there would be 0% increase in fees for 2016. News24