Higher education and training minister Buti Manamela says the University of Fort Hare (UFH) is taking steps to restore order after nearly a week of protests.
Speaking to the media over the weekend, Manamela said he had instructed the university council and management to take the necessary steps to ensure teaching and learning resumes this week, either in person or online.
He said that law enforcement and the university’s security teams would work towards ensuring stability on campus.
COMPLETE THE ACADEMIC YEAR
“Students must be able to complete their studies in peace and safety. That is a non-negotiable,” Manamela said. “The university must ensure the academic year is not put in any further jeopardy,” he said.
The protests at the historic university erupted over disputes surrounding Student Representative Council (SRC) elections and calls for the removal of Vice-Chancellor Professor Sakhela Buhlungu.
Manamela estimated the cost of damage to seven buildings, including lecture halls and a library, at between R100 million and R500 million, pending expert confirmation.
RESPONDING TO GRIEVANCES
The minister condemned the protests, describing them as criminal acts rather than legitimate demonstrations.
“What has happened at Fort Hare is not protest, it is criminal. It destroys opportunity and erodes confidence but it also undermines the confidence of young people who look to education as their only chance for a better life,” he said.
Manamela said his ministerial team would engage with students, staff, and other stakeholders to address grievances, hoping to end what he called “cycles of violent episodes.”
