SA BEST leader Nick Xenophon will be hosting a public meeting tonight for TAFE SA students affected by the embattled institution’s accreditation crisis.

Former Employee Ombudsman Gary Collis will co-chair the meeting with Mr Xenophon, which will give students the opportunity to come forward and discuss their experience.

Approximately 1300 students across 16 TAFE SA courses had their course work thrown into doubt by an audit conducted by the Australian Skills Quality Authority, which found the courses were not up to scratch.

Mr Xenophon has appealed for any students directly affected by the TAFE SA crisis to come forward.

“Do not underestimate the power of telling your story publicly,” Mr Xenophon said.

“Alternatively you can give my office the details and remain anonymous.

“Sharing your direct experiences of what has happened is an important step to solve the problems and make sure that they will not happen again.

“I understand there may be a reluctance to come forward but there is strength in unity.”

Mr Collis said there was fear among students of consequences for speaking out.

“At least 50 students have declined to attend the meeting on the basis of retribution by lecturers/managers,” Mr Collis said.

“The real concern arising out of the many conversations I have had with the students is the bullying issue.”

The meeting will be held at the Adelaide Rowing Club on Festival Drive on Torrens Lake at 6.30pm.

* If you would like to speak about your experience anonymously, you can contact the newsdesk on 82062300 and speak to a reporter.