Tensions remain high at the University of Fort Hare’s Alice Campus in the Eastern Cape, where two buildings have been set alight amid ongoing student protests.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that several students may have been injured during the unrest.
Lectures and academic activities have been suspended as demonstrations continue. The protests were allegedly sparked by the university’s decision to appoint an interim Student Representative Council (SRC) while amendments are made to the institution’s Student Governance Constitution.
Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane has reportedly condemned the violence, describing the destruction of property as unacceptable.
Meanwhile, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the Eastern Cape have voiced alarm over the situation, noting that both the Alice and East London campuses have been affected by the student-led shutdown.
In a statement, the party cited “poor governance, mismanagement, the suppression of students and staff, lack of safety, and failure to provide basic student services” as root causes of the unrest. “It cannot be that we remain silent as fires burn and bullets fly at a tertiary institution, especially one as historically significant as Fort Hare,” the EFF said.
The Ministry of Higher Education has also expressed concern, confirming that it is closely monitoring developments at the university. A meeting is expected to take place this week to address the grievances raised by students.
Authorities have yet to confirm the extent of the damage or the number of students injured.
Saturday Star