Police officers and private security are on high alert as the situation at the Fort Hare University in the Eastern Cape remains volatile.

A number of buildings at the Alice campus including the admin block and Student Affairs offices have been torched.

Protests at the University of Fort Hare pic.twitter.com/Gh7TP6L7xi

— SABC News (@SABCNews) October 8, 2025

The arson came after a clash between students and a private security company.

Fire-fighters were called to contain the fire but significant damage was already done.

Police spokesperson, Siphokazi Mawisa says, “On Wednesday (08 October 2025) at about 16h30, the students continued with the protest and set alight the Administration block, Student Centre, Auditorium and HIV Centre.  The situation at the University is still tense. However, police are monitoring the situation. Rubber bullets were used by police to disperse the crowd. No arrests have yet been made and no injuries or loss of life have been reported. During the protest several students held security guard’s hostage in a building and were rescued by police.

Meanwhile, the University has issued a statement saying the Alice campus is no longer safe for students and staff.

UFH Director for Marketing and Communication, JP Roodt says, “The University has suspended campus activities with immediate effect and students have been asked to vacate residences. The University Management expresses its deep disappointment and regret that the actions of a few have endangered the safety of the entire University community and disrupted the academic programme.”