Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela, has called for calm and urged all students and stakeholders at the University of Fort Hare to refrain from violence, intimidation, and the destruction of property amid ongoing unrest on campus.
In a statement released on Wednesday evening, the Minister said he has been in contact with the MEC for Community Safety to ensure that law enforcement responds proportionately while preventing criminal elements from taking advantage of the situation.
“I implore all students and stakeholders to refrain from violence, intimidation, and damage to property. Let us protect the University of Fort Hare’s proud legacy through dialogue, discipline, and collective responsibility,” said Manamela.
Calls for Peaceful Resolution
Minister Manamela described the escalation of unrest at Fort Hare as “deeply concerning” and confirmed that he has engaged directly with student leaders to encourage de-escalation and peaceful protest.
“Last night, I had a discussion with student representatives and implored them to de-escalate the situation at the university and ensure that all protest action is peaceful and provides leadership that protects both lives and university property,” he said.
The Minister added that he has communicated with the University Council through its Chairperson, requesting a comprehensive de-escalation plan that includes steps to safeguard both students and campus infrastructure.
Ministerial Team on the Ground
To support the stabilisation efforts, a Ministerial and Departmental team led by Professor Ahmed Bawa has been deployed to Fort Hare. The team is engaging with management, student leaders, unions, and Institutional Forums to mediate discussions and help restore order.
“We remain concerned about the destruction of property and acts of violence and condemn in the strongest terms actions that rob future generations of learning opportunities and divert scarce resources from improving the quality of education in our country,” the Minister stated.
Community Leaders Join Efforts to Restore Calm
Minister Manamela welcomed the intervention by Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane, who has mobilised a group of respected community and church leaders to help defuse tensions on campus. The delegation includes Reverends Finca, Hartland, Mbethe, Nopece, Ntlali, Nyobole, and Vika.
The Minister reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the University of Fort Hare’s academic activities continue in a safe and stable environment, emphasising that all parties must work together to uphold the institution’s legacy of learning and progress.
“Dialogue and discipline must prevail,” he said, reiterating that the department stands ready to support all initiatives aimed at restoring calm and ensuring the safety of students and staff at one of South Africa’s oldest and most respected universities.
Students Demand That Vice Chancellor Steps Down
Daily Maverick reports that student protests are focused on pressuring the current Vice Chancellor to resign.
University of Fort Hare campuses close amid arson and protests as students call for VC’s resignation
Additional reporting from sanews.gov.za
