An R11 million learnership programme launched by Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande last November has ground to a halt.
The programme was meant to give 1 000 learners paid internships in the service industry, but the unpaid students and service providers have pulled out.
Students have not attended class for training, citing the lack of transport money and the non-arrival of the promised stipends. Out of fear of losing their cash, some service providers are still providing training, but to empty chairs.