Plans to build a new university in Ekurhuleni have once again come under the spotlight, but progress appears slower than many had hoped. Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela has confirmed that a final location for the proposed University of Science and Innovation has still not been identified, citing a budget shortfall delaying key feasibility work.  The project, first announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa back in 2020, was meant to address a major gap as Ekurhuleni remains the only metro in South Africa without a university. But with construction now only realistically expected to begin in 2029, questions are being raised about delays, funding, and whether the government can deliver on its promises. We are in conversation with Thato Masekoa who is the President of The South African Union of Students as we look at the ongoing issues affecting access to quality higher education.