As protests over prolonged class cancellations continue, students describe themselves as being caught in the crossfire.
Image: Lilita Gcwabe
Dental science students at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) believe they have become collateral damage in an institutional conflict, as they feel that academic changes and plans between the university and the South African Dental Technicians Council (SADTC) leave their futures hanging in the balance.
A student speaking on condition of anonymity claimed that attempts by CPUT to secure alternative placements at other institutions had failed, raising their concern over not completing their qualifications.
"The university told us they tried to arrange placements at other institutions like DUT and TUT," the student said. "However, the SADTC reportedly did not approve this arrangement, which is deeply concerning because registration with the SADTC is required for us to practice after graduation."
She added that the uncertainty runs deeper, rooted in a long-standing dispute between CPUT and the regulatory body.
"We know that there has also been an ongoing conflict between CPUT and the SADTC since around 2020 regarding curriculum and assessment standards. This creates further uncertainty about whether we will be able to register professionally after completing our studies."
University spokesperson Lauren Kansley confirmed that tensions with the SADTC date back several years, describing it as a "stumbling block".
"The SADTC previously refused to register graduated students, whereas previously this was done automatically upon completion of the qualification," she said.
She added that new rules imposed by the council had disrupted the university’s ability to carry out its core mandate.
"This has impacted many of our students who have graduated and have still not registered with the SADTC."
Kansley stated that engagements involving the Departments of Higher Education and Health, the Council on Higher Education, and other universities are ongoing to resolve the impasse.
Meanwhile, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) confirmed that it had been approached by CPUT earlier this year to assist with student placements.
According to DUT, CPUT contacted Executive Dean Prof Gugu Mchunu in late January 2026, requesting access to its facilities.
"They were asked to submit a formal proposal, which was received on 25 January 2026. A meeting between the universities took place on 28 January 2026," DUT said.
The proposal sought temporary assistance from DUT and Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) to help CPUT dental technology students complete outstanding practical modules from the 2025 academic year.
While DUT agreed "in principle", the process stalled.
"There was no formal follow-up communication. CPUT did not continue discussions regarding this request," DUT said, adding that it was later indicated the placement would no longer be pursued.
DUT also raised broader concerns about regulatory constraints.
"While we recognise the importance of complying with bodies such as the SADTC, some requirements present challenges that can make student registration difficult," the institution said.
The SADTC did not provide a detailed response to questions, however the council said it had convened an urgent special meeting on March 25.
"The Council has resolved to issue a media statement in the coming days, rather than responding to each media inquiry individually."
lilita.gcwabe@inl.co.za