Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) students have refused to vacate university residences, saying many face financial and logistical challenges that make returning home impossible.
Students staged a sit-in at the university’s Bellville campus in Cape Town after management ordered residents to leave by 4pm on Wednesday, citing safety concerns.
The students say they were not properly consulted and argue that many depend on NSFAS for accommodation and transport. Those from outside the Western Cape say they have no money to travel home.
Their protest also highlights broader concerns over residence conditions, outstanding academic documents, financial pressures and CPUT’s proposed 2027 Financial Recovery Plan.
CPUT spokesperson Lauren Kansley defended the evacuation decision, saying it was based on intelligence indicating that violence could escalate.
She said the deadline was intended to de-escalate tensions rather than provoke students, adding that no violent incidents were reported overnight.