Students at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology’s Bellville campus started to protest, following demonstrations that began on Tuesday over concerns regarding proposed fee increases and university financial policies.
In response to the ongoing unrest, CPUT management has issued a formal memorandum addressing the student representative council’s demands, signalling a shift towards dialogue rather than confrontation.
The university has confirmed the withdrawal of a controversial financial model proposal that was initially discussed during a management committee meeting on 8 October. The vice-chancellor and management team emphasised that the proposal was merely under consideration and no formal decision had been taken by either management or the university council.
“The proposed changes to the financial model discussed during the Mancom and SRC meeting have been withdrawn,” the university stated in their official response. “This was only a proposal, and no decision has been made by Management or the Council.”
The protests appear to have been triggered by student concerns over potential tuition and residence fee increases, as well as questions surrounding the university’s application for bridging finance. However, management has moved to clarify that the bridging finance application is unrelated to student fees and represents a cash flow management strategy to ensure operational continuity.
Regarding the contentious issue of fee increases, the university has indicated that decisions remain pending guidance from the Minister of Higher Education, with such determinations typically made towards the year’s end.
University commits to dialogue
In what appears to be an attempt to defuse tensions, CPUT management has committed to establishing “a comprehensive and inclusive consultative process” involving both management and students to find “an agreeable and sustainable solution” to the concerns raised.
The university’s response notably avoided any reference to the disruption caused by the ongoing protests or their impact on academic activities, despite the demonstrations entering their fourth day, on Friday, during the crucial examination period.
The memorandum concluded with management extending “best wishes to students as they prepare for their year-end examinations” and expressing commitment to engaging in upcoming consultative meetings.
As the situation continues to unfold, the focus appears to be shifting from confrontation to consultation, with both sides seemingly willing to engage in structured dialogue to resolve the impasse.
On Friday afternoon Lauren Kansley, media spokesperson for CPUT confirmed that all campuses are quiet. According to Kansley, the Vice Chair met with students on Thursday evening, and it has been quiet since.
