On February 16, 2026, the University of Cape Town experienced significant disruptions as students protested against financial obstacles to registering for classes. These protests involved blocking campus entrances, particularly the M3 access point, as students voiced their concerns over fee blocks, student debt, and accommodation shortages. Many students have argued that these issues disproportionately affect those who are academically eligible yet unable to afford registration due to outstanding debts or financial exclusions.

The university's management acknowledged the receipt of a memorandum from student leaders, which outlines the grievances related to high costs of education and the lack of adequate accommodation. They expressed a commitment to engage with the issues raised while maintaining that academic activities should continue despite the protests. The protests reflect broader systemic challenges in South Africa's higher education sector, which many students claim hinder their educational opportunities.

Kitso Mojapelo, president of the Student Representative Council (SRC), emphasized that these demonstrations aim to address long-standing institutional inequalities faced by students. The actions taken by the students highlight the pressing need for reform in how universities handle financial aid and the structural issues related to student debt, raising questions about equity and access in higher education across South Africa.