The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has shifted all teaching and learning activities online until the end of the first term following violent student protests linked to delays in funding payments.
The decision, effective from Tuesday, comes after days of unrest across several campuses, where students have been demonstrating over delays in allowances from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
The university said it took the step to ensure the safety of students and staff, citing concerns over escalating violence involving a small group of protesters.
According to DUT, approximately 50 individuals were involved in criminal activities, including intimidation, vandalism and destruction of property. Since last Wednesday, nine students have been arrested on charges related to public violence and damage to infrastructure, with four more detained on Monday.
In a statement, the institution said the Student Representative Council (SRC) has distanced itself from the protests, condemning the conduct of those involved in unlawful actions.
“The SRC does not support the conduct of a small group engaged in intimidation, destruction of property and violent actions that have placed the safety and wellbeing of staff and students at risk,” the university said.
DUT management confirmed it will continue working with security services and police to safeguard campuses and will institute disciplinary action against those implicated.
“All identified students involved in unlawful activities will face disciplinary processes. The university is working closely with law enforcement to ensure perpetrators are held accountable, which may include suspension or expulsion,” it said.
Despite the move to online learning, DUT emphasised that campuses remain open and operational. Staff are expected to report for duty, while key facilities such as laboratories, libraries and student residences will continue functioning.
The university also clarified that NSFAS allowance payments are being processed, with another batch scheduled for Tuesday. It said about 700 affected students had their banking details verified over the weekend through a joint effort between the finance department, financial aid unit and the SRC.
DUT attributed the delays primarily to invalid banking details, identity discrepancies and incomplete submissions by students. It added that multiple reminders had been issued and engagement with NSFAS is ongoing to resolve outstanding issues.
The institution stressed that financial verification processes are standard practice and necessary to comply with banking and governance requirements in South Africa.