"Sasco KZN would like to thank all the students for responding to our call for them not to attend classes, but to go and give support to Jacob Zuma at his corruption trial case," chairperson Sammy Mashita said in a statement.

"We believe that it was this kind of patriotism that made our country what it is today."

Mashita said there were two reasons Sasco called on students and pupils to stay away from classes on Monday.

Students and pupils whose fees were paid by the Jacob Zuma trust might soon lose that support if their patron was unable to raise funds.

"The collapse of this fund will impact negatively on many people's lives, both students, learners and their families."

Mashita said Sasco also decided at its last national general council to support Zuma during his trial.

"(Jacob Zuma) is a leader of our movement and, as Sasco KZN, like the ANC in this province, we agree that he must be the next ANC and state president."

Mashita again called for a speedy and fair trial for Zuma.

Earlier it was reported that classes have been cancelled at some colleges in the Pietermaritzburg city centre due to Zuma's court case.

"We are excited to come here to see Jacob Zuma, but I am concerned about my studies," said Computer College of South Africa student Mnqobi Buthelezi.

"Our lecturers told us there are no classes today because most students chose to come here (to court)."

Buthelezi's classmate, Mfundo Zondi, was not concerned about the disruption the case has caused.

"As a Zulu man from the rural areas I support Jacob Zuma 100 percent because he has his people's needs at heart."

Zondi said should Zuma contest the elections, he would vote for him as the president of the country.