Off-Campus Safety and Security: Safeguarding the Off-Campus Environment
Although the university has no direct jurisdiction off campus, multiple measures have been put in place to safeguard students in off-campus environments, working closely with local law enforcement and security agencies. The UFS collaborates with the South African Police Service (SAPS), Community Policing Forum (CPF), municipal law enforcement structures, and private security companies, establishing a presence on CPF committees for Park Road Police Station Sectors 2 and 3, and Kagisanong Police Station Sector 4. These collaborations include occasional joint operations to strengthen safety. Protection Services on the Qwaqwa Campus is working with the SAPS and the CPF to improve the safety of off-campus students.
The university has also established a Student Safety and Security Collaboration Forum to support both on- and off-campus students.
Crime Stop WhatsApp groups, which include students, SAPS, CPF members, sector policing, armed security, and Protection Services, enable real-time reporting and coordinated responses to safety concerns.
The UFS has also contracted private security service providers to provide an armed response and security patrol service in areas immediately surrounding the three campuses. It is, however, of the utmost importance that staff and students note that safety starts with YOU and that individuals must not place themselves in situations that pose a risk.
Regular patrols by the contracted private security companies, the SAPS, CPF, neighbourhood associations, and other security companies occur in popular student housing areas in Bloemfontein such as Brandwag, Willows, and Universitas, and SAPS and security vehicles are specifically deployed to hotspot areas.
The Department of Housing and Residence Affairs, together with Protection Services, has accredited more than 3 000 beds in off-campus residences in Bloemfontein in alignment with the Department of Higher Education and Training guidelines, with more accreditations underway to ensure safe, reliable housing options for students. In a continuing effort to ensure that students in Phuthaditjhaba also have access to safe and high-quality accommodation options, 200 beds have been accredited in the Qwaqwa area.
Regular crime awareness sessions by Protection Services – and in some instances with the SAPS and other law enforcement bodies – address emerging issues, strengthening safety in areas where students live.