DIKENI – In a special meeting, the Council of the University of Fort Hare unanimously approved the appointment of Professor Wezile Chitha as the University's new Vice-Chancellor and Principal.
He will assume office during the first quarter of 2027.
In a statement, Council Chairperson Dr Siyanda Makaula, said Council considered the unanimous recommendation of the Vice-Chancellor Recruitment and Selection Committee, the outcomes of institutional voting processes and the comprehensive candidate assessments.
" Professor Chitha emerged as the highest-ranked candidate in both the Senate and Institutional Forum assessments, demonstrating consistent support across these important institutional governance structures.
"This formed an important consideration in Council's final determination. Professor Chitha brings extensive academic leadership, executive management experience and expertise in institutional governance and transformation.
"A qualified medical doctor, health economist and accomplished academic, he holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB), a Master's degree in Public Health, specialising in Health Economics from the University of Cape Town, and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Health from Walter Sisulu University."
Professor Chita replaces Professor Sakhela Buhlungu.
Buhlungu submitted his resignation in September, shortly before he was due to begin presenting his defence at a disciplinary hearing.
Buhlungu is facing several disciplinary charges, including gross misconduct, insubordination and bringing the university into disrepute.
Among the allegations against him is that he unlawfully appointed two executive directors.