Fee hike sparks violent protests at Fort Hare

University of Fort Hare (UFH) students set alight tyres and blocked the entrance to the Eastern Cape institution in protest against a hike in residence fees.

Students prevented senior management from entering the campus during the protest yesterday, the Dispatch Online reported today.

This was despite an interim court order, issued by the Eastern Cape High Court in Bhisho, prohibiting the students from protesting.

UFH vice-chancellor Mvuyo Tom said a decision had been taken not to meet with students while the situation was volatile.

“We are not going to meet with them while a gun is put against our heads,” he was quoted as saying.

Student grievances also included problems with security at residences, Tom said.

- Sapa