Fort Hare University council shortens Buhlungu’s notice period — TimesLIVE

In South Africa, the council of the University of Fort Hare has accepted the resignation of suspended vice-chancellor Professor Sakhela Buhlungu and shortened the contractually stipulated notice period for his dismissal. He will remain an employee of the institution until 23 October 2026.

Resignation before hearing

Buhlungu resigned on Monday, shortly before the start of his defence at a disciplinary hearing. The council initially did not agree to his request to terminate his employment immediately, as the contract provided for a notice period.

Following a special meeting, the council set a shorter period to expedite consideration of the matter. Council chair Siyanda Makaula said the decision was intended to provide clarity regarding the vice-chancellor’s employment status and the continuation of the disciplinary proceedings.

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Proceedings will continue

Despite Buhlungu’s resignation, the disciplinary proceedings against him will be brought to completion in accordance with applicable procedures and the principles of due process, TimesLIVE reports.

The professor, who had led the university in the Eastern Cape province since 2017, was suspended on 30 March. In the disciplinary case, he is accused of gross misconduct, insubordination and damaging the institution’s reputation. The allegations include appointing two executive directors without the required consultations and council approval.

Since Buhlungu’s suspension, the acting vice-chancellor has been deputy vice-chancellor for research Ntabi Taole-Mjimba. The council said the university’s governance mechanisms remain in place and that academic, administrative and operational work continues without interruption.