University of Fort Hare rocked by arson during student protests

Zuko Komisa

Student protests at the University of Fort Hare’s Alice Campus escalated to arson yesterday, with demonstrators torching the main administration building and a staff centre.
The unrest was driven by demands for the Vice-Chancellor’s resignation, delays in NSFAS payments, and clashes with police resulting in two student injuries.
In response, the university has indefinitely suspended all operations and exams, prompting the Higher Education Minister and Premier to condemn the violence and call for an investigation.

Violent student protests at the University of Fort Hare’s (UFH) Alice Campus escalated dramatically yesterday, 8 October 2025, after demonstrators set fire to key administrative and staff buildings.

The protests, which have been ongoing, culminated in the arson of the main administration block and a staff centre.

The unrest stems from a series of grievances, including calls for the Vice-Chancellor’s resignation, delays in NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) payments, and demands for immediate student leadership elections.

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Clashes between students and police led to two student injuries, further heightening tensions on the campus.

In response to the escalating violence and destruction, university management has announced the indefinite suspension of all academic operations and the immediate postponement of scheduled examinations.

Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela and Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane have swiftly condemned the attacks, labelling the destruction of university property unacceptable.

Both officials have called for urgent and comprehensive investigations into the precise causes of the unrest and the circumstances surrounding the damage.