The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) has suspended all academic activities indefinitely. The university says that it took the decision to protect the lives of students, staff and the institution's infrastructure. This included instructing all students to vacate the university residences.
No students or visitors will be allowed on the university's campus. However, essential services are still expected to provide support where necessary.
Violent protests have plagued the university this week and resulted in major damage to infrastructure. On Tuesday night, a building was set alight allegedly because students were not receiving their allowances.
VUT has advised staff and students to remain at home until they are advised to return to campus. The university says this will only be done when it is safe to do so.
“Manage reiterates the university’s stance of zero tolerance for disruption of the academic programme as well as damage to infrastructure and assets” declared VUT.
VUT said an internal investigation will now take place and promised stern disciplinary action against the perpetrators.
“Criminal charges will also be laid against those found responsible for the damage caused to the university property” concluded VUT.
