How Can We Help You?
Providing a Dynamic and Supported Study Experience
Introduction to Student Governance
We Help Students Thrive
From leadership and entrepreneurial skill development to societies and celebrating cultural diversity, the Student Governance and Development Unit (SGDU) provides a framework and governance body to facilitate a dynamic university experience.
At the heart of the SGDU is a vision to give Fort Hare students the stepping stones to become empowered, informed and ethical leaders.
At the University of Fort Hare, the (SGDU) is more than a support hub. It’s a catalyst for student development and is committed to walking alongside students in their academic journeys.
We would love for you to connect with the SGDU and make the most of your study experience.
Role and Responsibilities
The Driving Force Behind Student Development and Wellbeing
The SGDU plays a vital role in our university community. It serves as a voice for students, bridging the gap between the student body and the university administration. By advocating for students’ interests, addressing concerns, and ensuring their needs are met, the SGDU stands as a champion for students’ overall well-being and development.
Another of the SGDU’s roles is to provide opportunities for students to develop leadership, decision-making, entrepreneurial, and communication skills. Events and workshops are often on the SGDU’s agenda and students who participate gain skills that set them up for future success.
Creating a sense of belonging for our students is also an SGDU priority. We want our students to feel accepted, included, and valued.
As the SGDU, we are also committed to protecting students’ rights and ensuring that university policies are fair and inclusive. Every student has access to assistance with academic policies, housing, campus safety, and any other issues that must be addressed. Student grievances are processed through the SGDU as well.
Get in touch with the SGDU as soon as your academic journey begins. You’ll find the support, guidance and opportunities to successfully complete your studies and enjoy every moment of varsity life.
Representative Bodies
Your Partner Throughout Your Study Journey
The Student Representative Council’s (SRC) purpose is to provide a place where students have a voice and play a vital role in enhancing their academic and personal success. As a central hub, the SRC provides support and guidance in a friendly and welcoming environment.
Whether you’re navigating challenging coursework, seeking advice on career pathways, or looking for ways to balance academics with extracurriculars, the council is here to help. We connect students with essential resources such as tutoring, mental health support, financial aid information, clubs, societies and organisations.
Connect with us. Our goal is to ensure that every student has the tools they need to thrive, grow, and make the most of their educational journey.
Roles and Functions
Advocating for You
The Student Representative Council (SRC) is the heart of student advocacy and leadership, serving as the bridge between students and the institution. It empowers students to voice their ideas, concerns, and aspirations while fostering a vibrant and inclusive campus community.
From organising exciting events and activities to addressing important academic and social issues, the SRC works tirelessly to enhance the student experience. Whether it’s championing student rights, promoting diversity, or driving initiatives that enrich campus life, the SRC is your go-to team for collaboration, support, and meaningful change.
Together, we ensure every student’s voice is heard and valued!
Student Representative Council
Institutional Student Representative Council
East London Campus Student Representative Council
Alice Campus Student Representative Council
Student Governance
Student Rights and Responsibilities
As a University of Fort Hare (UFH) student, you have both rights and responsibilities that guide your academic and personal conduct.
Students have a right to a safe and inclusive learning environment, access to quality education, freedom of expression, and privacy protection. Alongside these rights, students are responsible for upholding academic integrity, respecting others, following institutional policies, and contributing to a positive community.
Understanding and balancing these rights and responsibilities fosters mutual respect and a productive educational experience.
Secure Financial Support
Financial Aid
The University of Fort Hare (UFH) is committed to supporting prospective students by providing guidance and administrative assistance in applying for financial aid.
The key role of Financial Aid is to aid students by coordinating funding between themselves, the University and the Funders. We provide administrative and advisory support to students.
Our role is to encourage prospective and current students to apply for as many funding opportunities as possible. Financial aid does not offer institutional bursaries or loans, students apply directly to Funders.
Funders assess and evaluate application submissions based on their own criteria and the information the student provides. An application for funding does not guarantee funding to students, Funders will communicate with successful recipients.
We administer a few bursaries and some of our principal funders:
NSFAS
The NSFAS bursary is open to all South African citizens and permanent residents with a combined household income of not more than R350 000 per annum before deductions. For persons living with disabilities, the combined household income is capped at
R600 000 per annum before deductions. Visit the application section of the NSFAS bursary scheme to learn more what scheme covers and how to apply.
Funza Lushaka Bursary
Funza Lushaka is only applicable to those students that intend to enroll for the Bachelor of Education degrees. This funder enables eligible students to complete a teaching qualification in an area of national priority. For a full description of the Funza Lushaka Priorities offered by the Department of Basic Education and for further application information, visit the Funza Lushaka website.
COID Bursary
This is a scheme formulated by the Department of Labor in South Africa and addresses the Missing Middle students whose parents are earning more than R350 000 threshold. Students will be advised on when this funding becomes available so that they can submit their application.
Sector Education and Training Authorities (Setas)
Various Setas occasionally provide bursaries to students. This funding is industry—and occupation-specific. Students will be advised when this funding becomes available so that they can submit their applications.
Crowdfunding
Crowdfunding is an online fundraising platform that connects students to funding communities. Visit Feenix.org for more information.