As the University of Fort Hare (UFH) oriented its 110th cohort of first-year students, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Sakhela Buhlungu, set the tone for the academic journey ahead with a clear message: a university is more than a place of instruction.
Addressing students during the first day of the week-long Orientation Programme, which commenced today, the VC described Nokholeji (UFH) as a space for reflection, ideas, critical thinking, and meaningful engagement, urging first-years to fully embrace the intellectual and social responsibilities that come with university life.
“Your time at the University of Fort Hare is not only about earning a qualification. It is about learning to think critically, to reflect on the world around you, and to engage meaningfully with others. That is the journey you begin today.”
The programme began with a performance by the famous Fort Hare Choir, creating a sense of celebration and welcome for the first years. This was followed by opening remarks from the University Registrar, Mr Njabulo Zuma, who formally welcomed the first year and emphasised the importance of academic discipline and institutional values.
Acting Dean of Student Affairs, Prof Priscilla Monyai, then outlined the purpose of the day, explaining that Orientation marks a crucial transition, helping students navigate academic life, institutional expectations, and the support available to them.
Echoing the Vice-Chancellor’s sentiments, deans from the University’s six faculties shared words of inspiration with the cohort.
Dean of the Faculty of Education, Prof Tsediso Makoelle, encouraged them to dream boldly: “Everything the mind of a person can conceive and believe can be achieved. So, dream big.”
Prof Liezel Cillier, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, reminded the students that university is about growth, not just qualifications: “Today is not just the start of a qualification, it is the beginning of shaping your own future. You are here because you earned your place, but more importantly, because you chose growth, challenge, and possibility.”
The Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof Neil Roos, acknowledged the challenges of university life and encouraged curiosity and adaptability. “University can feel overwhelming, but if your mind remains agile and curious, this space will stretch you in ways that prepare you for the world beyond the lecture halls.”
Reflecting on Fort Hare’s rich legacy, Prof Mzukisi Njotini, the Dean of Law, said that studying at Fort Hare is to inherit a legacy of esteemed alumni. “It is to be remembered that this institution has never been about producing ordinary graduates for ordinary times. This university has been shaping individuals who are prepared to think independently, to speak honestly, and to lead responsibly. As you begin your academic journey, I urge you to walk in the footsteps of those giants.
Hitting home with his address, the Dean of the Faculty of Science and Agriculture, Prof Karabo Shale, reminded students of the hopes their families have invested in them.
“As you commence your academic journey, remember the hopeful hearts you left at home. Know why you are here, and do not dash those hopes.”
Prof Richard Shambare, the Dean of the Faculty of Management and Commerce, placed the future in the new cohort’s hands and reminded them that they are now the leaders of tomorrow.
“This University of O.R. Tambo, Robert Mugabe, Yusuf Lule, and Nelson Mandela is now in your hands. You are the new generation of leaders to be cultivated at Fort Hare. Leaders who will lead this country, communities, and your families into the future.”
The Orientation Day programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr Zwelidumile Mditshwa, officially marking the beginning of the academic journey for UFH’s 110th first-year cohort.
Held on both the Alice and East London campuses, the Orientation Week will culminate with a Freshers Indaba on the Alice campus on Saturday.
Wamkelekile KwaNokholeji Fresher!