The University of Fort Hare council unanimously appointed Professor Wezile Chitha as the institution’s new Vice-Chancellor and Principal at a special meeting on 16 October 2026. Professor Chitha is expected to take office in the first quarter of 2027, succeeding Professor Sakhela Buhlungu.
Professor Chitha’s appointment follows a rigorous recruitment process that included screening, shortlisting, competency-based assessments, strategic presentations, and formal interviews conducted on 15 and 16 October 2026. The decision came after institutional voting outcomes and comprehensive candidate evaluations.
Dr Siyanda Makaula, Chairperson of Council, said the appointment marks an important moment for the university’s “journey of institutional re-visioning and rebirth,” highlighting confidence in Chitha’s strategic vision and leadership. “We are confident that Professor Chitha possesses the strategic vision, executive experience and leadership qualities necessary to advance these priorities and guide the University into its next chapter,” Makaula said during the announcement.
Professor Chitha currently serves as executive dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Walter Sisulu University and is president of the Health Professions Council of South Africa. He is an academic, medical doctor, and higher education executive with extensive experience in health sciences and university leadership.
His appointment comes in the wake of Professor Buhlungu’s resignation on 29 September 2026 amid governance disputes at Fort Hare. The university has been under scrutiny regarding leadership stability, and Chitha’s selection signals a move towards strengthening governance, academic standards, research, infrastructure, and student experience aligned with the institution’s long-term strategic framework targeting 2040.
The university publicly confirmed the appointment on 17 October 2026, with multiple independent media outlets, including SABC News, News24, eNCA, and IOL, verifying the details. The council’s unanimous vote followed presentations from shortlisted candidates to the combined sitting of Council, Senate, and the Institutional Forum on 15 October.
Professor Chitha is expected to officially assume his duties at the University of Fort Hare early next year. The university community and stakeholders await further plans outlining his vision for improving institutional governance and educational outcomes.
Cape Flats News will continue monitoring developments on the transition and any strategic initiatives announced under Professor Chitha’s leadership.