University of Fort Hare, Public university in Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa.
The University of Fort Hare is a public university in Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa, with additional campuses in Bhisho and East London. The institution comprises five faculties offering programs in education, law, management, commerce, science, agriculture, and social sciences.
The institution opened in 1916 as the South African Native College and was the first higher learning center in South Africa primarily for black students. The site of a former British fort was used for the campus after the military post was abandoned.
The institution takes its name from Fort Hare, the British military post on whose grounds it was established, and parts of the original fort remain within the campus today. Many visitors recognize the importance this place held for African independence movements, as future heads of state and political thinkers studied here.
The main campus in Alice is located about 50 kilometers (30 miles) west of King William's Town and the grounds are clearly visible from the road. Those planning a visit should be aware that it is an active educational facility and some areas are reserved for students and staff.
The government awarded the institution the Order of the Baobab in Gold in 2005 for its contribution to academic training across the African continent. This honor is granted only to institutions that have rendered exceptional service to South Africa.
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