University of Pretoria closes Hatfield campus amid protests

21 September 2016

Pretoria - The University of Pretoria has shut down the Hatfield campus, as protests continue at the institution.

"In the light of continuing protest action at various tertiary institutions, the Management of the University of Pretoria has decided to close its Hatfield campus with immediate effect," spokesperson Anna-Retha Bouwer said.

"This decision was made in the interest of the safety of students, staff and property."

There have been sporadic protests at the institution, some calling for a shutdown, while other groups want to continue with academic activities.

The protests follow the announcement by Higher Education and Training Minister Blade Nzimande, giving universities the freedom to determine their own fee increments for 2017.

Nzimande, however, indicated that the increments should not be more than 8%. The announcement was, however, not well received, with the majority of universities in the country experiencing protests.

Bouwer said the university was currently engaging with student leaders and other stakeholders.

"Details of the reopening of the campus will be communicated to all students, parents and staff on the website and social media platforms. The University regrets closing the campus at this critical time in the academic year, but all academic activities will be rescheduled," she said.

This article first appeared on News24, see here.