Dear CUT Community,

The University notes with concern the ongoing student protest at the Welkom Campus, which has disrupted academic and institutional operations since Monday, 13 April 2026.

Since the onset of the protest, Management has exercised considerable caution and restraint to maintain calm, while awaiting the formal submission of a memorandum of demands from the protesting students in order to engage meaningfully on the issues raised and restore stability within the institution. Regrettably, no memorandum has been received to date, despite extensive engagement efforts and the time afforded for its submission. This has further impacted academic continuity, including the disruption of online classes that had been arranged by the relevant academic authorities.

To safeguard the well-being of staff and students, as well as to protect the integrity of the institution, Management has resolved to temporarily suspend classes at the Welkom Campus on 16 and 17 April 2026. This measure is intended to de-escalate the situation, create space for constructive engagement with student leadership, and support the restoration of normal campus operations.

The University remains committed to resolving the situation responsibly and constructively and to resuming full academic and operational activities at the Welkom Campus on Monday, 20 April 2026.

We thank the CUT community for your understanding, patience, and continued cooperation during this period.

Issued By:

Executive Management

Central University of Technology, Free State