The University of Fort Hare (UFH) has suspended all classes and operations with immediate effect following violent student protests that saw several campus buildings set alight.
The university’s Administration Block, Student Centre, Auditorium, and HIV Centre were reportedly torched during the unrest. Although no injuries or fatalities have been recorded, police remain on site to monitor the situation and prevent further damage.
Students are demanding that student representative council (SRC) elections be held before the end of October, along with the immediate resignation of Vice-Chancellor Professor Sakhela Buhlungu, whom they accuse of poor governance and collapsing the institution.
In a statement issued late Wednesday, the university confirmed a temporary shutdown of both its Alice and East London campuses.
“It is with deep regret that the University announces the immediate temporary shutdown of all operations at the Alice and East London campuses,” the statement read.
“This difficult decision has been taken following the continued escalation of criminal activities associated with the recent protest, despite the interim court order issued by the Bhisho High Court on 7 October 2025 expressly prohibiting such conduct. All students must vacate University premises by no later than 17:00 on October 9, 2025. International students must contact the international office for guidance about the evacuation.”
Meanwhile, the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education has called for calm and urged all parties to find a peaceful resolution to the impasse.
Committee Chairperson Tebogo Letsie condemned the destruction of property, saying such acts undermine the university’s integrity and disrupt the academic programme.
“While the right to protest is protected, the level of violence and destruction is unacceptable and detrimental to the university’s reputation and the students’ education,” said Letsie.
“These protests are occurring at a critical time when students should be focused on their examinations and must be addressed immediately.”
Letsie further urged UFH management to engage in peaceful dialogue with student leaders and stakeholders to de-escalate tensions.
A delegation from the Department of Higher Education and Training is expected to visit the institution today to assess the situation and support mediation efforts.
