UFH to resume online classes after violent unrest

The University of Fort Hare in the Eastern Cape has confirmed that it will resume teaching online from Monday following the recent violent unrest and destruction of property on its campuses. 

Students have been calling for SRC elections and a change in university management – among other things. They were also demanding the university’s Vice Chancellor Prof Sakhela Buhlungu’s immediate resignation, accusing him of failing to attend to their needs.

Buhlungu said an Integrated Recovery Plan has been finalised and presented to Senate and the Extended Management Team to guide the restoration of operations. The university is also engaging with student representatives to address their concerns.

“We are addressing occupational health and safety issues and engaging with stakeholders, including students, to de-escalate tensions and ensure that the University returns to normal operations. We ask our students to be patient and await official communication indicating when it is safe to return,” he said.

Buhlungu also emphasised the importance of unity and shared responsibility during this period of recovery. “I have directed MEC portfolio heads to communicate with staff and students in the coming days to build awareness, confidence, and understanding of the continuity plans being rolled out,”.

Further discussions are planned with Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Higher Education next week. Blended learning is expected to begin from the 27th of this month.

On Thursday, the institution was shut down following a violent protest, which resulted in the destruction of university property.

Seven buildings, including the administration building, were reportedly torched during the protest.

“For now, I ask each student, employee, and alumnus to give expression to our core values of respect and professionalism in their conduct as we stabilise the University. I want to thank all staff for their steadfastness and dedication in the face of these challenges.”