The Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) is preparing to welcome students back to its campuses on Monday, 14 September 2026, as the institution resumes academic activities following weeks of disruption caused by student protests.
Also see: South African autumn graduation shows pride and style
Academic activities were suspended on 18 August after protests at a few CPUT campuses led to concerns about safety and escalating tensions. Students living in university residences were subsequently evacuated as the institution sought to stabilise the situation.
According to EWN, CPUT spokesperson Lauren Kansley said the university remained on track to reopen for the final term. She said the decision to evacuate students had been difficult but was taken after the institution received what it described as credible intelligence that violence could escalate.
Repairs and preparations underway
EWN reports that the university has been working to repair damaged infrastructure and prepare its facilities for students’ return. CPUT estimated the damage caused during the protests at close to R3 million or potentially more.
In an official notice issued on 4 September 2026, CPUT management confirmed that operational support departments were continuing with cleaning and repairs to ensure campuses were ready for the resumption of academic activities.
The disruption resulted in approximately three weeks of lost tuition time. CPUT’s Senate subsequently approved adjustments to the 2026 academic calendar aimed at recovering lost teaching time while protecting students’ graduation prospects.
Also see: CPUT student reportedly impersonated another at graduation ceremony
According to a CPUT news flash, the revised plan is as follows:
- Tuition will be extended by two weeks.
- Faculties will recover the equivalent of five additional teaching days, depending on their individual academic requirements.
- The revised academic year is expected to conclude on 21 December 2026.
- The 10 December 2026 summer graduation is scheduled to remain unchanged.
- Reassessments and special assessments will take place during the existing January 2027 period.
- Implementation of the revised calendar depends on academic activities resuming on 14 September.
With campuses now being prepared for reopening, the university faces the challenge of restoring normal academic operations while ensuring that students have enough time to complete their coursework and assessments.
Also see: After weeks of protests, CPUT scraps 2027 Financial Recovery Plan
Featured image: X/@ewnupdates
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