The University of Fort Hare (UFH) has successfully concluded the 2025/2026 Student Representative Council (SRC) elections, marking one of the most efficiently delivered and well-participated student governance processes in recent years. The elections, held on Thursday, 13 November 2025, were administered by the Institute of Election Management Services in Africa (IEMSA), which ensured that all phases of the electoral cycle adhered to principles of transparency, fairness, and credibility
IEMSA commenced the election project on 3 November and worked closely with the Department of Student Affairs, the Election Liaison Committee, ICT Services, external auditors, and party agents to deliver a secure and smooth process. Key milestones—including registration, nominations, voters roll certification, manifesto presentations, platform testing, and final readiness assessments—were all completed within a compressed timeframe and with high levels of administrative precision
A major success factor was the deployment of UFH’s secure electronic voting system, which enabled students to vote from 08:00 to 20:00 using a streamlined platform authenticated through student numbers and One-Time PIN verification. Prior to launch, the system underwent extensive testing by the IEC, Student Affairs, auditors, and party agents, who confirmed its usability and integrity. A demonstrative video was also circulated to ensure voter readiness
Student participation was exceptionally strong. Of the 18 263 eligible voters, 12 980 cast their ballots—an institutional turnout of 71.1%.
Alice Campus recorded an impressive 72.9%, while East London Campus achieved 67.2%.
These numbers reflect a vibrant student democracy and growing confidence in UFH’s electoral management systems
Election Day proceeded without disruptions. Observers, party agents, and external auditors monitored the entire 12-hour voting period from designated results centres on both campuses. IEMSA released provisional results shortly after polls closed, and no objections were received within the 24-hour objection period—a strong indicator of trust in the process and its outcomes
The proportional representation model was used to allocate seats based on the total valid votes received per candidate or organisation.
“UFH extends its appreciation to all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the elections ICT Services, the Independent Electoral Commission members, student organisations, independent candidates, and the thousands of students who participated in large numbers,” said Professor Priscilla Monyai, Acting Dean: Student Affairs.
The University congratulates all elected representatives and looks forward to working with the incoming SRC as it continues strengthening student leadership, accountability, and service to the UFH community, she said.