The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela has called for calm and collective responsibility at the University of Fort Hare, following recent disruptions that have affected the institution’s operations.
Speaking after tabling the Department of Higher Education and Training’s 2024/25 AnnualReport, the Minister described the situation as “deeply concerning” and urged all stakeholders to work together to restore stability and safeguard the academic programme. He reaffirmed that universities should remain spaces of learning, hope, progress and not of fear or uncertainty.
“What has happened at University of Fort Hare is not protest; it is criminal. It destroys opportunity, erodes confidence, and undermines the dreams of thousands of young people who look to education as their only chance for a better life,” said the Minister.
Manamela confirmed that his department is working closely with the South African Police Service, the Eastern Cape Provincial Government and the university’s security teams to ensure the safety of students and staff. He also commended Premier Oscar Mabuyane and his team for their swift support in helping stabilise the situation.
He emphasised that the immediate priority is to resume academic activities safely and efficiently. Following discussions with the University Council, the Minister directed management to implement all necessary measures including temporary online learning where needed, to ensure students can complete the academic year without further disruption. “Students must be able to complete their studies in peace and safety. That is non-negotiable,” he said.
The Minister further acknowledged the ongoing work of a Ministerial team led by Professor Ahmed Bawa, which has been engaging students, staff and stakeholders to develop a long-term recovery plan for the institution. Their findings he noted, will inform the next phase of government’s intervention at Fort Hare.
Calling for restraint and collaboration, Manamela encouraged all members of the university community to protect the legacy and values of this historic institution.
“We cannot rebuild the University of Fort Hare with bricks and budgets alone. We must rebuild it with integrity, compassion and a shared commitment to its founding purpose, the advancement of knowledge and the liberation of the human spirit,” he said.
He acknowledged that the challenges at Fort Hare have persisted for several years despite various efforts to address them. Going forward, he stressed the need for lasting solutions that rebuild confidence in the higher education system.
“As we rebuild the Department, we must also rebuild trust in our institutions from Fort Hare to every college, university and skills centre’s across the country. The future of our nation depends on it,” concluded the Minister.
His words come as the Department of Higher Education and Training released its 2024/25 Annual Report, marking both the close of the sixth administration and the start of a renewed chapter for South Africa’s Post-School Education and Training (PSET) system.
The report celebrates key milestones over a million university students, 220.000 graduates and 20.000 artisans produced each year, alongside stronger financial discipline and progress in procurement transformation that empowers black women, youth-owned businesses and SMMEs.
While the Department achieved an unqualified audit and maintained solid fiscal control, it reached only 49% of its planned targets, prompting a renewed focus on accountability and results. In response to the Auditor-General’s findings, decisive steps are already underway to tighten internal controls, improve data reporting systems and strengthen governance across all PSET institutions as the Department builds towards a more effective and trusted future.