University of Mpumalanga rejects claims it favours foreign nationals for academic jobs, SA sceptical

The University of Mpumalanga is standing firm against allegations that it prioritizes foreign nationals over locals for academic roles. This follows a wave of public criticism and an oversight visit from the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee.

At the heart of the dispute is the employment of 38 foreign academics. Critics on social media and government observers have questioned whether these appointments come at the expense of qualified South African candidates.

University Defends Staffing Ratios

In a statement addressing the controversy, the university noted that its workforce is overwhelmingly local. The institution claims that South Africans make up more than 94 per cent of its total staff complement.

Management further asserted that all recruitment procedures comply strictly with the Immigration Act and the Employment Services Act. Despite this defense, the university confirmed it had already started reviewing its appointment policies before the recent parliamentary scrutiny.

Regional Recruitment Concerns

The tension at the university comes as other Mpumalanga institutions face similar heat. A recent visit to Gert Sibande TVET College revealed significant hiring irregularities that have fueled broader public skepticism.

During that visit, it was discovered that candidates were not properly vetted against local employment laws. Committee Chairperson Tebogo Letsie highlighted that some appointments at the college were technically illegal, heightening fears about regional oversight.

Public Scepticism Remains High

The University of Mpumalanga's spokesperson, Tlangelani Ubisi, emphasized that the institution is proactive in its policy adjustments. However, these assurances have done little to pacify social media users who remain critical of the university's explanation.

For now, the university continues to navigate the balance between international academic standards and the legal requirements to prioritize the domestic workforce. The outcome of their policy review remains a point of interest for labor advocates.