Eastern Cape, South Africa – Fort Hare University has suspended all academic and administrative operations following a violent student protest that culminated in the burning of key campus buildings. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, has sent shockwaves through the historic institution and the broader higher education community.
According to a statement released late Wednesday night by the university, the protest led to the administration and student affairs buildings being set ablaze, prompting the immediate closure of the campus for safety reasons. The university cited ongoing concerns for the safety of staff, students, and infrastructure as the main reason for the drastic decision.
The protest was triggered by management’s plans to appoint an interim Student Representative Council (SRC) during a period of constitutional amendments to the university’s student governance framework. Students have strongly opposed the move, arguing that it undermines democratic student leadership processes.
Adding fuel to the fire, protestors are also demanding the resignation of Fort Hare University Vice-Chancellor Professor Sakhela Buhlungu, whom they accuse of failing to act against what they allege is widespread mismanagement and corruption within the institution.
Some students have voiced frustration over what they see as a lack of accountability and transparency from university leadership. They argue that issues such as delayed academic records, inadequate housing, and financial exclusions have persisted under Buhlungu’s watch.
Court Order Ignored During Fort Hare University Unrest
The university has made it clear that the protesters were acting in defiance of a Bhisho High Court interim court order, which explicitly prohibited violent demonstrations and damage to university property.
In the statement, Fort Hare University noted:
“The few students engaged in the protest have not adhered to the interim court order, and their actions are not only unlawful but have endangered lives and campus infrastructure.”
As a result of the violence, the university said it had “no choice but to take drastic action to restore calm” on campus.
South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Buti Manamela, has weighed in on the situation. Speaking on Thursday morning, Manamela confirmed that he had requested a de-escalation and security plan from Fort Hare University to safeguard lives and prevent further destruction of campus property.
“The department is deeply concerned about the escalation of violence at Fort Hare University. We are working with the institution to ensure that order is restored as quickly as possible,” said Manamela.
The Minister’s office is expected to continue engaging with university leadership, student representatives, and law enforcement agencies to address the root causes of the unrest and to chart a peaceful resolution.
In an effort to reduce further risk, Fort Hare University management has ordered all students to vacate campus premises by 5:00 PM on Thursday. This includes students residing in university-owned accommodation.
University spokespersons said that failure to comply with the evacuation directive could result in legal action or disciplinary proceedings against those who remain on campus beyond the deadline.
While some students have begun vacating the premises, others have vowed to remain in defiance of the order, accusing the university of attempting to silence legitimate dissent through force and legal threats.
Fort Hare University, one of South Africa’s most iconic institutions, is no stranger to political activism and change. The university boasts a rich legacy, having educated African leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Oliver Tambo, and Robert Mugabe. However, in recent years, Fort Hare has also been at the center of governance controversies, corruption investigations, and administrative instability.
Vice-Chancellor Buhlungu himself has been the subject of threats and alleged assassination attempts due to his stance on rooting out corruption at the university — a campaign that has drawn both praise and criticism.
This week’s events mark a new low point in the university’s ongoing struggle to balance reform, student demands, and campus stability.
As the university suspends operations and the dust begins to settle, there are still many unanswered questions. Will the administration open channels for negotiation with student leaders? Will any arrests be made for the arson attacks? And how will academic programs be affected by the shutdown?
For now, Fort Hare University remains closed, its buildings damaged, and its students divided — a reflection of the broader challenges facing higher education institutions across South Africa.
Source- EWN
