Bloemfontein: Following ongoing student protests, Higher Education and Training Minister, Buti Manamela, is engaging with the leadership and stakeholders at the University of the Free State (UFS) to protect the remainder of the 2025 academic year. The protest started after the university announced its decision to discontinue provisional registration from 2026, prompting demonstrations that escalated on Monday evening, resulting in several security officials sustaining serious injuries.
According to South African Government News Agency, Manamela confirmed that he has been briefed on the university’s decision to temporarily close the institution until stability is restored. He said the gravity of the situation necessitates that the safety and security of all students, staff, and property be prioritised.
‘The violence that led to serious injuries is deeply regrettable and completely unacceptable. Our thoughts are with the injured officials and their families, and we wish them a full and speedy recovery. While we recognise the right to protest, it must remain peaceful and within the prescripts of the law. The destruction of infrastructure and violence against persons and property only serve to undermine legitimate concerns and jeopardise the academic future of all students,’ Manamela said in a statement on Tuesday.
The Minister said he remains in direct contact with the Vice-Chancellor of UFS. A key focus of their discussions is ensuring the preservation of the 2025 academic year. Manamela has instructed his department to work closely with the university to develop contingency plans that will minimise academic disruption and ensure that no student is unfairly affected by the temporary closure.
He also called on all student leaders, including members of the university community, and all concerned parties to choose the path of constructive engagement over destruction.