TUT Extends Registration Deadline Following Student Protests
TUT Extends Registration Deadline Following Student Protests. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) has officially extended its registration deadline to accommodate students who were unable to register last week due to ongoing protests on campus. This move aims to ensure that every eligible student gets the opportunity to enroll for the academic year without disruptions.
Addressing the Claims on NSFAS Student Registration
There have been claims circulating that the university extended the registration period due to a low number of registered students, allegedly because NSFAS-funded students with outstanding debts from 2016 were not allowed to register. However, TUT spokesperson Willa de Ruyter has dismissed these allegations, stating that there are no financial blocks on the registration of NSFAS-funded students.
“These allegations are false. There are no financial restrictions preventing NSFAS-funded students from registering,” De Ruyter confirmed in an official statement on Monday.
New Registration Deadline Announced
To ensure that all students have the opportunity to register, TUT has extended the deadline until Friday. The university has also assured students that all necessary arrangements have been made to facilitate smooth and efficient registration processes across its campuses.
High Student Registration Numbers Despite Protests
Despite the disruptions caused by the protests, TUT has reported impressive registration numbers. According to official reports, a total of 53,719 students—more than 85% of the total student capacity of 60,505—have already completed their registration for the 2017 academic year. This indicates that the majority of students have successfully enrolled despite the temporary setbacks caused by demonstrations.
Fight for Student Accommodation
Last week, for two consecutive days, TUT was forced to shut down its Pretoria West, Arts, and Arcadia campuses following student-led protests. The Pretoria West campus saw heightened tensions as students blocked entrances with burning tyres, voicing their frustration over the lack of student accommodation.
The protests were primarily driven by concerns over inadequate student housing, a long-standing issue that has plagued South African universities. Many students struggle to secure proper accommodation due to financial constraints, limited space in student residences, and increasing demand for housing near campuses.
TUT Response to Student Concerns
In response to the protests, TUT has assured students that it is working towards finding long-term solutions to the accommodation crisis. The university administration is reportedly engaging with relevant stakeholders to address the housing shortage and improve student living conditions.
TUT has urged students to channel their concerns through the appropriate institutional forums to facilitate productive discussions and resolutions.
Ensuring a Smooth Academic Year
With the extended registration deadline, TUT aims to ensure that every student has the opportunity to commence their academic journey without unnecessary barriers. The institution remains committed to fostering an environment conducive to learning and academic excellence.
Students are encouraged to take advantage of the extended deadline and complete their registration as soon as possible to avoid any last-minute challenges. The university has also called for calm and constructive engagement from all stakeholders to ensure a smooth start to the academic year.
Conclusion
The extension of the registration deadline at Tshwane University of Technology underscores the institution’s commitment to student success. While protests highlighted pressing issues such as student accommodation shortages, TUT continues to engage with relevant authorities to address these challenges. As the new academic year begins, students are encouraged to focus on their studies while the university works towards long-term solutions to enhance their educational experience.
