CPUT shut down amidst escalating student protests

The Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) has shut down all class activity indefinitely with immediate effect, amidst escalating violent student protests. 

In addition to this the institution has also ordered students living on residences to vacate by Friday at 4pm. 

CPUT building and cars alight at Bellville campus PICTURE: Twitter

"Continued violent disruptions, torching of buildings and wanton attacks on institutional infrastructure, have forced university management to close all campuses indefinitely. Unruly students, acting in bad faith, with the sole purpose of making the university dysfunctional have left Management with no other choice but to act swiftly and decisively. The safety of staff and students is our primary concern at this stage," CPUT said in a statement on Thursday. 

According to reports several of the institutions infrastructure have been damaged due to being burnt during protests. This includes the student recreational center and a cleaning supply room on the Bellville campus. The Wellington Campus was also affected by fires. 

CPUT building alight at Bellville campus PICTURE: Twitter

The university has also announced on Thursday that it would be taking legal action against students for "disruption of any university activities, unlawful conduct including violence, intimidation, incitement and damage to CPUT property and vehicles," it said in a statement. 

Statement made by CPUT on Thursday PICTURE: CPUT Management

Students from The University of the Western Cape (UWC) have also reportedly joined in on some of the protests. 

Done by: Thaakiera Ackerdien