University of Fort Hare orders immediate shutdown after arson attacks damage key buildings

The University of Fort Hare (UFH) has suspended all campus activities with immediate effect following multiple arson attacks on its Alice campus on Wednesday evening. Petrol-bomb incidents targeted the Main Administrative Building, the Student Affairs Building, the Agriculture building, and a newly constructed campus clinic set to open later this month. Firefighters and UFH campus protection services responded swiftly to contain the blazes, with no injuries or loss of life reported at the time of the announcement. The shutdown comes amid escalating student protests, prompting authorities to instruct all students to vacate the premises by 17:00 on October 9, 2025.

The attacks stem from ongoing unrest triggered by the university’s announcement to appoint an interim Student Representative Council (SRC) during proposed amendments to the student governance constitution. Protesters, including students demanding the removal of Vice-Chancellor Professor Sakhela Buhlungu, escalated their demonstrations into violent acts, highlighting deeper grievances over institutional leadership and representation. UFH’s statement detailed the coordinated nature of the arson, noting that the incidents occurred earlier in the evening and have left the campus in disarray.

Preliminary damage estimates range from R250 million to R500 million, pending a full assessment by university officials. JP Roodt, UFH Director of Marketing and Communication, described the events as indicative of “much bigger issues, with a significant component of sponsored violence and criminality.” The institution emphasized its commitment to restoring normal operations as soon as security permits, while urging calm and cooperation from the student body during this period of disruption.

FAQs on University of Fort Hare shutdown

What prompted the shutdown at the University of Fort Hare?

The immediate suspension of all activities was due to multiple arson attacks, including petrol bombs targeting key buildings, amid student protests against an interim SRC appointment and demands for the Vice-Chancellor’s removal.

Which buildings were affected by the arson at UFH?

The Main Administrative Building, Student Affairs Building, Agriculture building, and a new campus clinic were hit by petrol-bomb attacks.

What is the estimated damage from the incidents?

Preliminary estimates place the damage between R250 million and R500 million, with a detailed assessment to follow.

When must students vacate the UFH campus?

All students have been instructed to leave the premises by 17:00 on October 9, 2025.