CPUT Council withdraws 2027 draft financial recovery plan

The Council of Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) has withdrawn its draft 2027 Financial Recovery Plan, following student protests over the proposed implementation. At least three individuals were injured, and a university building was set on fire, causing damage expected to exceed R2 million. The Central Student Representative Council (SRC) has been demanding an investigation into the university's financial management.

In response to the protests, CPUT suspended its academic programs across all campuses, instructing students to vacate university residences. The decision was aimed at de-escalating tensions, though no student was forced to leave, with many opting to remain due to financial considerations. Key issues raised by the SRC include the safety of student residences and the withholding of academic documents.

During a special council meeting over the weekend, the council approved the withdrawal of the Financial Recovery Plan, which would have required students living in university residences to pay R7,000 upon registration next year. The CPUT council, not management, took this decision, and an academic catch-up plan is currently being developed.