Dear CUT Community,

The University wishes to give an update regarding the ongoing protest action at the Welkom Campus following recent engagements between Management and the Student Representative Council (SRC).

In good faith and in recognition of the importance of constructive engagement, the University decided to temporarily suspend academic activities and campus operations at Welkom Campus last Thursday and Friday to create space for dialogue and to prioritise the peaceful resolution of student concerns. These engagements have been cordial and conducted in a spirit of mutual respect.

An initial meeting was held on Friday, 17 April 2026, during which the SRC requested an opportunity to consult with the protesting students in order to secure a clear mandate. A follow-up meeting was held on Sunday, 19 April 2026, where the following resolutions were reached:

1. Academic activities and campus operations will resume on Monday, 20 April 2026.
2. The University will submit a letter of deviation to NSFAS to allow funded students in non-accredited private accommodation to remain there, pending verification of accredited accommodation.
3. A joint task team of students and staff will continue with the task of verifying the quality of accredited private accommodation.
4. The SRC and protesting students will submit a memorandum of demands to Executive Management and agree on a timeframe for responses.

The University respects the right to peaceful protest; however, this must be exercised within the bounds of the law and with due regard for the rights of others to access education and work in a safe environment. An interim court interdict granted on Thursday, 16 April 2026, remains in full force to safeguard the University community and ensure continuity of academic and operational activities.

The University calls on all students and staff from the Welkom Campus to act responsibly, uphold the rule of law, and support the restoration of stability and the continuation of the academic activities and operations in the Welkom Campus.

Issued By:

Executive Management

Central University of Technology, Free State