Update for staff on University-based academic activities, 5 September 2019

As a show of solidarity in support of the national outcry against gender-based violence and violence against foreign nationals, the University of Pretoria will suspend all University-based academic activities on Friday, 6 September 2019, except for essential services, external events and graduations.

As a symbol of our respect for those who have lost their lives as a result of the violence, we will be flying flags at half-mast on the different campuses. In addition, each faculty will make arrangements with and invite students and staff to attend programmes in support of the above initiative.

Update on classes today, 5 September 2019

Due to the disruption of classes and in the interest of the safety of our students and staff, the Executive has decided to suspend classes for today, 5 September. We regret the interruption and apologise for any inconvenience.  A further update will follow soon.  

Tests postponed, 4 September 2019

The University of Pretoria has noted with concern the violence and disruption taking place across the country.  

In solidarity with those effected by the recent violence, as well as in the interest of the safety and security of all staff and students, we have decided to postpone tests scheduled for this week. Due to clinical requirements, students from the Faculties of Health and Veterinary Sciences should go to ClickUP for more information.

We will keep you informed on developments; please see updates on the official University of Pretoria social media platforms, the student portal and the UP website.

It is unfortunate that circumstances beyond our control have affected the normal functioning of our academic programmes. The safety and security of students and staff remains our priority.

We urge students who feel unsafe – especially at night – to request campus security to escort them to their residences and to make use of the publicised green routes, especially after hours. Our campus security officers are also placed strategically across all campuses.

Students can call the following 24-hour emergency numbers: 012 420 2310/2760, 0800 006428 or 083 654 0476 (also listed on the back of student cards). If students don’t have airtime a ‘please call me’ message can be sent to the last number and campus security will call them back.

We encourage students who are feeling overwhelmed or anxious during this time to seek support at the Department of Student Affairs, or call the UP Student Careline on 0800 747 747.   

The University condemns all forms of violence, and in particular gender-based violence and attacks on foreign nationals.

3 September 2019

Dear Student

The University of Pretoria (UP) has noted with concern, the violence and disruption taking place in the Pretoria CBD. We have requested Deans to accommodate students whose class attendance and writing of tests may have been affected by the disruption of transportation from the Pretoria CBD.

Students who have been affected should contact their relevant lecturers to make the necessary arrangements, while violence persists in the CBD.

The safety and security of students and staff remains a high priority, especially in the light of a number of violent incidents nationally that have affected students.

UP Management is engaging with the police, the Hatfield City Improvement District and the Security Services of the University, to assess security.

We urge students to make use of the publicised green routes, especially after hours. Students may use the UP emergency number 0800 0064 28 (also listed at the back of student cards) should the need arise.

The University condemns all forms of violence, and in particular gender-based violence and attacks on foreign nationals.