The University of Fort Hare's council has rejected the immediate resignation of vice-chancellor Prof Sakhela Buhlungu, who submitted his resignation on the day he was set to defend himself at a disciplinary hearing. According to council chairperson Dr Siyanda Makaula, Buhlungu handed in his resignation with immediate effect on Monday, shortly before his defence was to commence. The council stated that Buhlungu's decision meant he would not have the opportunity to respond to serious allegations levelled against him.
The council, however, noted that Buhlungu's employment contract required him to serve a notice period, and as such, it would not allow him to leave immediately. The council stated that it had expressly reserved its right to proceed with the disciplinary process during the applicable notice period, in accordance with the Employee Relations Policy. This means that the employment relationship between Buhlungu and the university will continue for the duration of the notice period.
The council also disputed claims made by Buhlungu in his resignation correspondence, stating that it did not accept assertions that the independent disciplinary process was designed to produce a predetermined outcome and that he was subjected to unfair treatment. The council emphasized that these matters remain contested and should not be understood as having been established as fact. Furthermore, the council noted that other employees implicated in the breach of the university statute had been treated similarly, with each being afforded an opportunity to respond to allegations against them.
Buhlungu, who has led the Eastern Cape university since 2017, was placed on precautionary suspension on March 30 following a forensic investigation into the appointment of two executive directors. Deputy vice-chancellor for research Dr Nthabiseng Taole-Mjimba has been acting vice-chancellor since then. The university charged Buhlungu with gross misconduct, insubordination, and bringing the institution into disrepute, accusing him of appointing the two executive directors without required consultation with the senate and institutional forum, and without council approval.
The council stated that Buhlungu's resignation does not resolve the allegations against him, despite his decision to resign while the disciplinary process is still underway. The university community will be kept informed of material developments as appropriate, according to Makaula. The council's decision to reject Buhlungu's immediate resignation and continue with the disciplinary process suggests that the issue is far from resolved.
The university's decision to suspend Buhlungu was backed by parliament's portfolio committee on higher education and training, which expressed hope that the process would end quickly so the institution could focus on its core functions of teaching and learning. Committee chairperson Tebogo Letsie stated that the university was acting without fear or favour. The investigation and disciplinary process have undoubtedly caused disruption to the university's operations.
As the situation continues to unfold, the university community remains uncertain about the future leadership of the institution. With Buhlungu's resignation rejected and the disciplinary process set to continue, the council's actions will likely have significant implications for the university's governance and leadership. The outcome of the disciplinary process will be closely watched by stakeholders, including students, staff, and the broader higher education community.
Key points
- The University of Fort Hare council has rejected Prof Sakhela Buhlungu's immediate resignation.
- Buhlungu's employment contract requires him to serve a notice period.
- The council will continue with the disciplinary process during the notice period.
