Minister Manamela outlines efforts to stabilize the university system, focusing on governance and security challenges. The Department of Higher Education and Training also presents its 2024/25 Annual Report. Concurrently, students at the University of Fort Hare protest the Vice-Chancellor’s extended contract.
Minister Manamela has detailed ongoing efforts to stabilize the University, specifically focusing on addressing governance and security challenges that have significantly impacted the institution. The Minister’s briefing encompassed a comprehensive overview of the strategies being implemented to restore stability and ensure a conducive environment for both students and staff.
These initiatives include strengthened security protocols, improved administrative processes, and a renewed emphasis on good governance practices. The primary objective is to foster a culture of accountability, transparency, and efficient operation within the university system. This commitment is seen as crucial to creating a positive learning environment and promoting the overall success of the institution. Furthermore, the Department of Higher Education and Training’s 2024/25 Annual Report was presented, offering a detailed analysis of the department’s activities and achievements throughout the reporting period. The Annual Report serves as a critical tool for accountability, providing a comprehensive overview of the department’s performance against its strategic objectives and financial allocations. It highlights the progress made in various areas, including student enrollment, research output, infrastructure development, and the implementation of government policies within the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) sector. The report also details the challenges encountered and the measures taken to address them, offering valuable insights into the department’s operations and its commitment to continuous improvement. As required by Parliamentary mandates, the department formally presented its Annual Report to Parliament on 30 September 2025. This presentation underscored the department’s unwavering commitment to upholding accountability and ensuring transparency within the PSET system. The timely submission of the report aligns with the department’s dedication to providing regular updates and maintaining open communication with stakeholders. This commitment is aimed at building trust and fostering a collaborative environment for the advancement of higher education and training across the nation. The report’s detailed information and analysis provide essential information for parliamentary oversight and informed decision-making related to the PSET sector. The Department’s commitment to transparency is seen as vital for building public trust and ensuring the effective management of resources. Students at the University of Fort Hare have recently engaged in a week-long protest. The students are voicing their demand for the immediate resignation of Vice-Chancellor Professor Sakhela Buhlungu. This action stems from the university council’s decision to extend Professor Buhlungu’s contract by an additional 12 months. The student body is expressing their discontent and lack of confidence in the Vice-Chancellor, citing concerns regarding his ability to effectively address their needs and concerns during his tenure. The students are adamant in their position, stating that a change in leadership is necessary to resolve the current issues and improve the overall university environment. The protests involved active demonstrations and calls for the Vice-Chancellor to step down. However, University Spokesperson JP Roodt has stated that Professor Buhlungu has no intention of resigning from his position. This statement reflects the university administration’s stance on the matter, indicating a continued commitment to the current leadership structure. Despite the student protests and the demands for his removal, Professor Buhlungu intends to continue leading the institution. This disagreement highlights the complex challenges and differing perspectives at play within the university. The university leadership’s stance emphasizes their confidence in the current leadership and their plans to navigate the ongoing situation. WATCH | The University of Fort Hare in the Eastern Cape confirms that Vice-Chancellor Professor Sakhela Buhlungu will continue to lead the institution for another year. This decision comes despite the week-long protest by students who had demanded his immediate resignation. The university’s announcement reflects the council’s decision and its determination to uphold the leadership structure, despite the student’s ongoing protests and demands
University Stabilization Annual Report Higher Education Student Protests Governance
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