Following a hotly contested race for the six University of Fort Hare 2025-2029 (UFH) Convocation Executive (CONVEX) positions, the newly elected committee was announced during the Convocation Election Annual General Meeting this past weekend, 22 February 2025.
The online elections, held from 17 to 19 February, were overseen by the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA). An independent audit review report confirmed the election process was transparent, fair, and properly managed, assuring stakeholders of the integrity of the newly elected CONVEX.
The team represents a group of dynamic leaders with a shared vision of promoting academic excellence, strengthening ties between the University and its alumni, student support, and institutional growth. They are:
- Mr Ayabulela Pezisa – President
- Mr Sonwabiso Mamkeli – Vice President
- Ms Lungiswa Sibukwana – Secretary
- Mr Lunga Nobetsiki – Additional Member
- Ms Sisipho Gwebushe – Additional Member
- Mr Azame Mqokweni – Additional Member
As a dedicated alumnus, Mr Pezisa is committed to creating opportunities for fellow students and graduates, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. With a Master of Science degree earned cum laude, his leadership priorities include addressing graduate unemployment, improving student financial support, and aligning university programs with job market demands.
“I aim to work closely with the university, private sector, and government agencies to create platforms that connect graduates with job opportunities, internships, mentorship programs, and entrepreneurship initiatives. Additionally, I will advocate for funding and training programs that equip graduates with skills to start their businesses and become job creators rather than job seekers,” said the President.
Mr Mamkeli, an accomplished alumnus with a Bachelor of Laws degree, will serve as the Vice President of the Convocation. A leader with deep-rooted experience in student politics, having served as the SRC Premier of East London and Deputy President of the ISRC, Sonwabiso is focused on enhancing the university’s image, addressing student debt, and securing funding opportunities for postgraduates.
Ms Sibukwana, a social work manager and supervisor, has been appointed Secretary of the Convocation. With more than 10 years of leadership experience in social development and as Chairperson of the Gauteng Social Development Athletic Club, she will focus on networking with key stakeholders and driving initiatives that foster stability and renewal for the university.
Lunga Nobetsiki, an experienced agricultural scientist and current Master’s student in Agricultural Economics, has been appointed as an Additional Member of the Convocation. Nobetstiki’s dedication to student support and his work with students from disadvantaged backgrounds demonstrates his commitment to fostering relationships with alumni, stakeholders, and employers to create opportunities for current students.</p>
Ms Gwebushe is an educator with experience in various leadership roles, including as Branch Chairperson of ANCWL YD, she has been appointed as an Additional Member. She brings a wealth of experience in community development, student empowerment, and social justice. She is dedicated to strengthening alumni relations and ensuring the continued success of Fort Hare’s graduates.
A passionate advocate for student engagement, Mr Mqokweni is the final Additional Member of the Convocation. His leadership experience includes serving as the legal and constitutional affairs officer in the SRC and founding initiatives to empower high school learners and promote Fort Hare as a university of choice. Mr Mqokweni is committed to upholding the university’s prestige and building stronger alumni relations.
Lunika Auditors, an independent audit firm, closely reviewed the election process. In their comment, the firm confirmed the integrity of the election process, stating:
“Sufficient and appropriate audit procedures were conducted, and evidence was gathered to support the conclusions’ accuracy. The conclusions were based on comparing the prevailing conditions at the time against the established audit criteria. These conclusions are applicable only within the scope of the audit work undertaken. Based on the evidence obtained, we conclude that the election process at the University of Fort Hare was conducted in a fair manner, with integrity, and in accordance with the applicable guidelines. In our opinion, the control environment within the audited areas is considered to be ‘Good,’ providing reasonable assurance that the inherent risks were appropriately managed.”
The primary functions of the Convocation include advising and facilitating communication between the University and its former students, fostering networks such as Alumni Chapters, and supporting the strategic objectives of
UFH. Additionally, the Convocation must ensure adequate representation of relevant governance structures, as outlined in the University’s Statute and Rules.
We wish them well during their tenure.