CPUT students ask university for R2k travel allowance amid evacuations

CPUT students have urged the university to provide flexible transport support, citing concerns that a one-size-fits-all shuttle service could leave some students stranded in unfamiliar areas and increase safety risks. Following an arson attack at the Bellville Campus, the university temporarily closed, forcing students to leave their accommodation, many of whom are far from Cape Town.

The Higher Education and Training Minister, Buti Manamela, has directed a team to facilitate urgent talks between CPUT management, its council, and student leaders. Students are seeking transport assistance, as they have not received clear communication about specific transportation arrangements. They point out that previous shuttles may not accommodate students from rural areas or provinces, potentially endangering their safety.

Thus, they propose a direct transport funding of R2,000 per eligible student to cover travel costs and meals, allowing them to choose the safest mode of transportation. Manamela has condemned the arson, destruction of property, and intimidation, urging students to use proper channels to address higher education concerns. He emphasized the need for dialogue to resolve issues and prevent a prolonged disruption to the academic year.

The university must also consider the return journey for students once operations resume, as they are concerned about the financial and transportation difficulties they might face again.