The Cape Peninsula University of Technology has closed all campuses until further notice amid ongoing violent student unrest.
CPUT ordered students to evacuate all university residences within 24 hours, with everyone required to leave by 4 pm on Wednesday, 19 August.
The university said academic activities would stop immediately, while most staff would work from home. Essential and selected support staff will continue operating where required.
Arson attack triggers evacuation
The shutdown followed an arson attack at CPUT’s Bellville campus on Monday evening.
Fire officials responded after the Old Education building was set alight. No injuries were reported in that incident.
CPUT said continued violent disruptions, damage to infrastructure and the burning of buildings had created a growing safety risk for students and staff.
Management said evacuating residences had become necessary to de-escalate the situation and protect lives.
Protests linked to financial grievances
Student protests began earlier this month amid anger over CPUT’s proposed 2027 financial recovery plan.
The proposal included upfront payments of up to R7,000 for some self-funded students and aimed to address about R4.2 billion in student debt. Students also raised concerns over withheld academic records and certificates.
After protests, CPUT’s council withdrew the draft plan to allow further consultation.
Despite that decision, unrest continued.
Earlier protests also resulted in property damage, while a security official was injured after being struck with a brick, according to reports.
Students now face sudden departure
The evacuation leaves students living in CPUT residences having to make urgent arrangements to leave campus.
CPUT said its priority was the safety of the university community and that management remained focused on finding a way to complete the academic year.
The university has not announced when campuses or residences will reopen.
For now, all campuses remain closed and in-person academic activity has been suspended as management attempts to contain the unrest.