The academic programme at the University of Fort Hare (UFH) was interrupted earlier this week as a fire engulfed parts of the campus. The institution revealed that protesting students torched parts of the Alice campus just hours before midyear examinations were set to commence.
The university has verified, based on CCTV footage, that the foyer and certain areas of its indoor sports centre were extensively damaged by a fire. Additionally, acts of vandalism occurred, resulting in the vandalism of furniture and computer labs.
Reports suggest that some students expressed dissatisfaction with the examination schedule, particularly raising concerns about the close spacing of exams and limited preparation time.
However, the university says students and faculties were consulted about changes to the schedule weeks ago and all the concerns raised during consultations were attended to.
Twelve individuals were arrested and appeared in court on Tuesday in connection with the fire. Some of them were registered students at the institution.
UFH’s JP Roodt says some of the individuals who were arrested are involved in campus politics. The university’s Student Representative Council elections are set to take place later this year.
We confirmed that the individuals that are arrested are students with ties to political organisations, student political organisations at the University, but very importantly individuals who are actually not students who participated in the violence yesterday on our campus.
Minister of Higher Education and Training Dr Blade Nzimande has condemned the acts of arson and vandalism at UFH. They added that the government will not tolerate any destruction of property, regardless of the reasons behind protests.
Arson, vandalism and intimidation will never justify or cannot be associated with any legitimate forms of protest and should be condemned unequivocally by all, including by students themselves.
The minister commended the institution's staff and students for their swift response to containing the raging fire.
I am further delighted that this unfortunate incident did not disturb the academic project and that the mid-year exams are well underway with no disruption. The university must ensure that all students who are involved in this incident are also subjected to the university's internal disciplinary process.
UFH announced its intention to procure additional security services to closely monitor examination venues.
This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges universities face in maintaining a peaceful academic environment amidst student protests and the need for open dialogue between students and university authorities to address concerns effectively.
