Background to the Allegations at the University of Fort Hare

The University of Fort Hare, a historic institution in the Eastern Cape with roots dating back to 1916, has found itself at the centre of fresh concerns over assessment integrity. Recent reports indicate that the university administration has initiated an internal probe following claims that students were tasked with marking examination scripts belonging to their peers. These allegations, which surfaced in early June 2026, centre primarily on law modules but have raised broader questions about processes across faculties.

Details emerging from circulated images and voice notes suggest that undergraduate or postgraduate students may have been involved in evaluating both formative tests and final examination papers. In one reported instance, markers allegedly shared comments mocking poor performance via WhatsApp groups, further eroding trust in the fairness of the system.

University Response and Official Statement

In a statement released shortly after the claims gained traction, University of Fort Hare management emphasised that students are not authorised to mark examination scripts. The institution confirmed it is conducting a thorough investigation to establish the facts and identify any individuals who may have deviated from established protocols. Officials stressed that all assessment must adhere to strict internal policies designed to maintain academic standards.

The probe is being handled through established governance channels, with the possibility of involving external experts if required. Management has urged any staff or students with additional information to come forward confidentially.

Stakeholder Reactions and Student Body Response

Student organisations have been quick to voice their concerns. The South African Students Congress (SASCO) branch at the university has called for full accountability and transparency, demanding that the investigation be completed swiftly and that findings be made public. SASCO representatives highlighted that any breach of assessment rules undermines the value of qualifications earned by all students.

Individual students and alumni have expressed shock on social media platforms, with some questioning how such practices could occur without detection. Others have pointed to the added pressure on staff workloads as a potential contributing factor, though no official confirmation of staffing shortages has been linked directly to the incident.

Context of Ongoing Challenges at Fort Hare

This latest development occurs against a backdrop of previous scrutiny at the institution. The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has previously been authorised to examine issues related to degree awarding and admissions processes. While those earlier investigations focused on different areas, they underscore the importance of robust oversight in South African public universities.

The Eastern Cape higher education landscape has seen multiple institutions navigate similar pressures around resources, governance and student support in recent years. Fort Hare’s administration has repeatedly affirmed its commitment to restoring and maintaining public confidence.

Photo by Jolame Chirwa on Unsplash

Implications for Academic Integrity in South African Higher Education

Allegations of this nature touch on core principles of fairness and credibility that underpin the entire sector. When assessment processes are called into question, the perceived value of degrees from affected institutions can be impacted, affecting graduate employability and institutional reputation both locally and internationally.

Regulatory bodies such as the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) maintain strict guidelines on assessment practices. Universities are expected to have clear policies separating teaching, learning and evaluation roles to prevent conflicts of interest.

Broader Sector-Wide Lessons and Best Practices

Many South African universities have invested in digital assessment platforms and moderation systems to strengthen quality assurance. These tools allow for multiple layers of review, reducing the risk of unauthorised involvement in marking. Training programmes for academic staff on ethical assessment are also becoming more common across the sector.

Institutions are increasingly sharing experiences through bodies such as Universities South Africa (USAf) to develop collective responses to emerging risks. Transparent communication with students and the public is viewed as essential for maintaining trust during investigations.

Potential Impact on Students and Graduates

For current students at the University of Fort Hare, the uncertainty created by the probe can be unsettling. Those whose scripts may have been affected are awaiting clarity on whether re-marking or other remedies will be offered. Graduates from recent cohorts are monitoring developments closely, concerned about how the situation might be viewed by employers or postgraduate admissions committees.

Support services at the university, including counselling and academic advising, are expected to play a role in assisting affected individuals throughout the process.

Regulatory and Ministerial Oversight

Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Buti Manamela has previously emphasised the need for strong governance across public universities. While no direct comment on this specific matter has been issued at the time of writing, the department continues to monitor institutional compliance with national standards.

The CHE conducts periodic audits and quality reviews that include assessment practices. Any findings from the Fort Hare investigation could feed into wider sector recommendations.

Photo by Richan Fourie on Unsplash

Future Outlook and Institutional Reforms

University leaders at Fort Hare have indicated that lessons from the current probe will inform future enhancements to assessment protocols. This may include stricter access controls for examination scripts, expanded use of external moderators, and clearer communication of marking policies to all stakeholders.

The institution remains focused on its academic mission and student success, with applications for the 2027 intake already open. Continued investment in staff development and technological infrastructure is seen as key to preventing recurrence of such issues.

Conclusion: Upholding Standards in a Changing Landscape

The University of Fort Hare’s decision to investigate the allegations promptly reflects an institutional commitment to accountability. As the probe unfolds, the focus will remain on ensuring that assessment processes meet the highest standards expected in South African higher education. Stakeholders across the sector will be watching closely, recognising that the integrity of one institution affects the reputation of the entire system.