University management took the decision on Tuesday (14/10) following student protest actions on its three campuses over the past week. Three UFS security personnel sustained injuries and are recovering in the hospital after a group of students caused extensive damage to university property and engaged in acts of vandalism and arson.

The Qwaqwa campus was closed with immediate effect on Tuesday, and students were requested to vacate the campus within 24 hours. Students have been protesting against the UFS’s proposed termination of provisional registration from next year. 

They gathered on the main campus from Monday morning (13/10) to disrupt academic activities.

“The university has noted false social media reports alleging a student was killed during the protest on the Qwaqwa campus,” said UFS spokesperson Lacea Loader. These reports are false.

“The executive management committee (Exco) of the university expresses its deep concern about the situation on the Qwaqwa campus and is currently assessing the full extent of the damage. The university’s protection services continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure the safety of staff and students.

“On the Bloemfontein and South campuses, all lectures are suspended until further notice; however, only limited movement will be allowed on campus from 19:00 until 07:00. The university’s Exco has extended an invitation to the student representative councils of all three campuses for continued engagement on the issues that have led to the protests.”

Violence rocks the Qwaqwa campus of the University of Free State again pic.twitter.com/rByR5FKpMH

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The protests are related to the introduction of a “fairer, more equitable, and sustainable” financial support system for all students as of 2026. Under this system, academically qualifying students will be fully registered once their fees or funding have been confirmed, she said.

The portfolio committee on higher education and training expressed deep sadness and concern over the violent conduct of private security personnel against protesting students at the UFS. “We are deeply disturbed by the scenes of brutality against defenceless students,” said higher education and training portfolio committee chairperson Tebogo Letsie.

“It is painful to witness such violence at institutions that should be promoting learning, critical thinking, and nation-building. We cannot hold committee meetings and remain silent while such acts are happening at our universities.”

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