University campuses in South Africa are once again under the spotlight as the UCT & Wits student protests 2025 update reveals a sharp escalation. As of mid-July 2025, student leaders at both the University of Cape Town and the University of the Witwatersrand have initiated a hunger strike. The protest, now in its tenth day, is a direct response to the latest fee increases announced by university councils earlier this year.
The hunger strike has intensified pressure on university management, as over two dozen students have pledged to continue without food until their hunger strike demands are acknowledged. These include a full freeze on fee hikes, increased transparency in financial decision-making, and expanded access to bursaries for economically disadvantaged students.
Reasons Behind the Hunger Strike Demands
Students cite unsustainable cost-of-living increases, alongside rising tuition and residence fees, as the catalysts for their action. While government funding remains stagnant, universities argue they have little choice but to raise fees to maintain infrastructure and academic quality. Protesters, however, argue that this model disproportionately affects working-class students, many of whom are first-generation university attendees.
The protest groups, organized through coalitions such as the UCT Fees Must Fall Revival and Wits Students United, have pointed out that financial exclusion mid-year continues to strip students of degrees-in-progress. This has triggered widespread anger, especially among final-year students who are now facing withdrawal due to unpaid fees.
Key Demands and Responses
| Issue | Student Demand | University Response |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Freeze all 2025 increases | Partial concessions on some programs |
| Accommodation Costs | Cap and subsidize student housing fees | Rejected due to budget constraints |
| Bursary Access | Broaden eligibility, increase funding | Promised review by August 2025 |
| Financial Transparency | Open books on administrative spending | No formal commitment yet |
Campus Disruption Reaches New Levels
The protest has caused substantial campus disruption across both institutions. Multiple lectures have been suspended. Library access is limited, and several administrative buildings are now blocked by peaceful sit-ins. Students supporting the hunger strikers have organized rotating watch groups, supplying water and providing health check-ins.
Medical professionals affiliated with student health services have expressed concern over the prolonged fasting, citing dehydration and fatigue symptoms in several participants. Nonetheless, student leaders remain steadfast. They say the hunger strike is their last option, after multiple attempts at negotiation fell on deaf ears.
Reactions From Government and University Councils
Minister of Higher Education Naledi Khumalo acknowledged the protests during a July 12 parliamentary session, stating that “the pain of exclusion is real,” while urging university councils to seek common ground. Both UCT and Wits have called emergency Senate meetings to discuss the unfolding crisis, but no breakthroughs have been reported.
University spokespeople maintain that while they empathize with students, economic pressures necessitate some level of fee adjustment. However, student organizations have vowed to escalate their actions if tangible policy commitments are not made before the end of July.
Looking Ahead: What Comes Next?
With negotiations stalled, and students refusing to back down, the coming weeks are critical. A public town hall scheduled for July 20 at Wits may serve as a turning point, especially as alumni, faculty, and civil society groups begin to weigh in.
The resilience of the protest movement signals a broader discontent with the status quo in South African higher education. Unless meaningful engagement occurs soon, the UCT & Wits student protests 2025 update could mark the beginning of another prolonged standoff.
FAQ
What sparked the UCT & Wits student protests in 2025?
Rising tuition and housing fees, paired with a lack of adequate bursary support and financial exclusion of students, were key triggers.
What are the hunger strike demands?
The hunger strike demands include a freeze on all 2025 fee hikes, more financial aid, transparency in university budgets, and affordable accommodation.
How long has the hunger strike lasted?
As of July 14, 2025, the hunger strike is in its tenth day.
What impact has the protest had on campus operations?
Lectures have been suspended, administrative offices occupied, and libraries restricted, leading to widespread campus disruption.
Is the government involved?
Yes, the Minister of Higher Education has called for dialogue, but no official intervention has taken place yet.
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