Fort Hare University Slams ‘Act Of Terrorism’ After Arson Attack At Alice Campus

The University of Fort Hare has strongly denounced what it describes as an “act of terrorism” following a violent incident at its Alice campus earlier this week.

According to the university’s spokesperson, JP Roodt, two buildings—both housing exam papers—were set on fire in what appears to be a deliberate and coordinated act. The attack follows ongoing student unrest.

“These are properties that were recently refurbished. We’ve seen the agricultural laboratory, newly refurbished, which came on last year; we are seeing that the main administration building was targeted. Something has gone from an unrest to something that became an act of terrorism,” Roodt stated.

Students Protest Over Management and Leadership Issues

The violent events come amid growing tensions between students and university management. Demonstrators have accused Vice Chancellor Sakhela Buhlungu of failing to address alleged mismanagement within the institution.

Students have also expressed outrage over the suspension of the Student Representative Council (SRC) president and the administration’s decision to install interim student leadership.

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Roodt emphasised that the university will not tolerate violence or destruction of property, warning that such acts undermine the academic integrity and safety of the institution.

“The torching of two buildings housing exam papers at the institution is tantamount to a coordinated terrorism effort,” Roodt said, reaffirming the university’s stance against criminal behaviour on campus.

The university has called for calm as authorities investigate the incident, with management pledging to take firm action against those responsible.

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