University of Fort Hare vice-chancellor Mvuyo Tom has given an assurance that the institution’s centenary celebrations will go ahead despite threats of disruptions.

Student formations this week threatened to disrupt Friday’s long-awaited celebrations if demands given to management were not addressed.

Addressing a press conference on Wednesday‚ Tom said that management had addressed all of the demands and was hoping to prevent any disruptions.

“Sixteen complaints were given to management‚ but management has responded to them. It is true that there are tensions at the institution since Monday. East London campus is not involved in that tension… that’s at our Alice campus. Today the East London students attended a court case for students who were disruptive last year — not on the university — during the ‘#feesmustfall’ campaign]’‚ so students boycotted classes today‚” Tom said.

Commenting on the issue‚ Premier Phumulo Masualle said the provincial government would monitor and provide support to calm the situation.

 “We are hoping that we all shall come to an agreement and give the event of this magnitude the respect it deserves‚” Masualle said.

Addressing the same press briefing from Parliament in Cape Town‚ Minister in the Presidency Jeff Radebe said President Jacob Zuma would deliver the keynote address at the formal event.

“President Robert Mugabe is expected to speak as an alumnus of the university. Other alumni who include African leaders are expected to attend the event‚” Radebe said.

He said the main event would take place at the Sports Complex of the Alice campus with 2‚500 attendees and an additional 1‚000 members of the public hosted in an overflow marquee.