GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - As lockdown continues, local college and university students have many worries, including that they might not be able to successfully complete this academic year.

Most of the students who spoke to the Advertiser do not have sufficient internet access, and say that even though work can be sent to them via email and WhatsAppp, data is expensive.

"Before the lockdown, during recess, we were told that we would not receive schoolwork. Now we can't return," said Sinothando Malgas (19), a BEd Foundation Phase student at Nelson Mandela University.

"I'm in Graaff-Reinet and my laptop and books are in Port Elizabeth. I can't do anything, it's a mess."

Jade Jaftha (20) an education student at Varsity College in Port Elizabeth, says all her text books are also in Port Elizabeth, and she is home in Graaff-Reinet. "We work online, but data is a big struggle and we can't all keep up. I didn't think things would turn out like this."

While juggling her studies, human resources student Thobeka Malgas (22) is also worried about her health. "I'm asthmatic, and sometimes have to queue for six hours at a clinic to get medicine." 

Malgas, who is also an entrepreneur, says she is worried because she can't trade during this time. Study-wise, she is worried about the workload once her college reopens. "Some of us won't survive the amount of work."

Sheila Hlongwane (22), a management assistant student at Midlands College, says although she has a laptop, she can't do research. "I don't think I'll be able to be successful in my studies. I'm deeply concerned."

Jaftha said she hopes and prays that she will pass this academic year. "It is extremely stressful."

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