UFS student leaders reach deal to phase out provisional registration after violent protests
The University of the Free State (UFS) has reached an agreement with student leadership to phase out provisional registration over the next two years, following a week of violent protests across its three campuses.
The protest began after the UFS Council’s decision on September 26, 2025, to phase out provisional registration, a system that allowed students to register despite outstanding fees.
On October 14, the university suspended all academic activities and ordered students at the Qwaqwa campus to vacate within 24 hours, following incidents of vandalism, arson, and injuries to security personnel.
On 15 October, the UFS Executive Committee (Exco), Institutional Student Representative Council (ISRC), and Campus Student Representative Councils (CSRCs) held discussions to implement the phased removal of provisional registration.
The university said the agreement was reached “in a spirit of working towards a fairer, more equitable, and sustainable financial support system for all academically deserving students.”
Under the new plan, provisional registration will be phased out gradually between 2026 and 2027, allowing the university time to assess students’ financial risks and provide support. From January 1, 2026, all students will be fully registered once their fees or funding have been confirmed.
“The outcomes of the meeting reflect the university’s ongoing commitment and ensure that all students are supported within a financially sustainable framework,” the university said.
“It also reaffirms the university’s commitment to expanding access through enhanced financial support while sustaining the UFS as a national asset for future generations.”
The university praised the constructive approach taken by student leaders and reiterated its commitment to continued engagement.
“The Exco remains committed to ongoing dialogue with student leadership through open discussion that reflects the university’s values and works collaboratively in the best interest of all students and the broader university community,” the university added.
The agreement aims to address concerns over rising student debt, estimated at close to a billion rand over the past five years, while balancing access, fairness, and financial sustainability following the recent disruption of academic activities across Bloemfontein, Qwaqwa, and South Campuses.
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