At its extraordinary meeting held on Thursday, 6 October, Senate resolved that when the University of Pretoria re-opens on Monday, 10 October, a process of structured engagements with staff and students to address the call for free education, already started within faculties during this week, will be conducted institutionally. The academic programme will remain suspended in order to allow for these engagements to take place.

The aim of the 10 October engagements is to develop a shared University response to the national call for free quality education made by students, whose protests have already led to the closure of at least seventeen universities.

The University will use the engagements to create a conducive environment for different views and perspectives to be aired and heard.

Senate did not take this decision lightly, but did so after consulting with internal parties, including the SRC, and the management of other universities who are facing similar challenges.

The University recognises the concern of parents and students who are anxious to continue with  the academic programme. However, in light of the recent violent incidents at other universities and in the interest of safety, it is important that the University reaches a level of consensus that will help avoid any further disruption.

We invite all our staff and students to participate in the engagements scheduled for Monday, 10 October. Students may contact their Deans and HODs for further details. Please visit the University website regularly for updates.

We apologise for the inconvenience caused.