The University of Fort Hare has reportedly fired Vice-Chancellor Professor Sakhela Buhlungu before his official departure, as the institution moves ahead with the appointment of his successor, Professor Wezile Chitha.
The university council announced Chitha’s appointment following a unanimous decision at a special council meeting on Friday, 16 October 2026. He is expected to assume office in the first quarter of 2027.
Council chairperson Dr Siyanda Makaula described the appointment as a significant step in the university’s efforts to strengthen institutional stability, governance and academic excellence.
Chitha currently serves as Executive Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Walter Sisulu University. He is a qualified medical doctor and health economist with extensive experience in academic leadership, institutional governance and organisational transformation.
He was also elected president of the Health Professions Council of South Africa for the 2025–2030 term.
The university said the recruitment process included candidate assessments, strategic presentations and interviews, with participation from various institutional stakeholders.
Chitha will be expected to lead Fort Hare’s long-term development plans towards 2040, with priorities including research, infrastructure, financial sustainability and improving the student experience.
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