Fort Hare Lectures Halted as Student Protests

Fort Hare students demand the fallout of the new interim SRC. (Supplied)

by Mathipa Phishego

Academic activities at the University of Fort Hare’s Alice Campus have been brought to a standstill as student protests continue for a second consecutive day.

The unrest follows the university’s announcement that it will appoint an interim Student Representative Council (SRC) while amendments to the institution’s Student Governance Constitution are being finalised. Students have condemned the move, calling it undemocratic and a breach of student autonomy, arguing that management should instead facilitate fresh SRC elections.

One student leader, speaking anonymously for fear of reprisal said, “we will not allow an SRC imposed by management. Students must elect their own representatives.” University officials have urged calm, saying the interim structure is a temporary measure meant to ensure continuity in governance while legal and procedural changes are completed.

Campus security alomg with the South African Police Service (SAPS) has been reinforced, and lectures remain suspended until further notice. The university has not confirmed when academic activities will resume.