The University of South Africa (Unisa) has dismissed recent media reports that it claims are aimed at damaging the institution's reputation. The university addressed these reports in a statement released where they criticised the coverage labelling it as sensationalist and lacking substance.
The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) News recently aired a report titled "Unisa struggling to restore its battered image," while City Press published an article with the headline "Unisa 'can’t locate' corruption documents."
Unisa says these reports are part of a broader campaign to discredit the university and its leadership. They argue that no credible evidence was presented to support the claims.
The content of its reporting is completely removed from any reputation or image-related issues. Instead, all that is presented is a subjective tirade from a disgruntled former employee who was rightfully dismissed for serious acts of misconduct.
The university argues that its reputation should be measured by its achievements, pointing to several key indicators of its success. The university says it continues to rise in international rankings, improvements in research output, recognition of its academics, and the production of quality graduates
The reputation and image of an institution should be mainly judged against how it fares in the delivery of its mandate and core business. In Unisa’s case, there is evidence of plenty of the steady improvements it has been making in the last three years.
Unisa also dismissed the notion that its image is in decline. They say that millions of students still apply each year, viewing the institution as a top choice for higher education in South Africa and beyond.
Our student numbers remain within the approved enrolment plan of 378,000 students, with millions applying each year to study with Unisa. This is but another affirmation that the Unisa brand remains strong and many aspiring students in South Africa and abroad still consider Unisa as a university of choice.
Response to Allegations
The university says the dismissal of its former Registrar was justified due to serious misconduct.
In 2023, Unisa dismissed registrar Professor Steward Mothata following a fallout with top leadership. At the time the university did not provide specific details behind Mothata’s dismissal.
The university respects the rule of law and the fact that the former Registrar initiated legal proceedings challenging his dismissal. The matter is currently before court and the university prefers to deal with the issue in court and not through the media.
Engagements with the DHET
Unisa also refuted claims that it provides documents related to corruption.
Correspondence and engagements between Unisa and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) are the subject of strict protocol and confidentiality. They are limited strictly between the two parties and not for public or media consumption. It is also not university policy or practice to legitimise documents or information obtained through dubious, unofficial means.
Unisa stated it does not recognise documents obtained through unofficial means.
Investigation Of Dr Reshma Mathura
Unisa also responded to reports about the ongoing investigation into Dr Reshma Mathura, its Executive Director of Finance.
The university reiterated its policy of not commenting on ongoing investigations or disciplinary matters. For now, Mathura remains suspended pending the outcome of the investigation which is being handled by an external firm of attorneys.
Unisa's legal services department has appointed a firm of attorneys to investigate allegations of misconduct against Dr Mathura. This investigation is ongoing. Dr Mathura remains suspended pending the finalisation of the investigation.
The university concluded its statement by reaffirming its commitment to combating misconduct and corruption. Unisa emphasised that all allegations are thoroughly investigated, and appropriate actions are taken regardless of the individual's position within the institution.
any reports or suspicions of serious misconduct and/or malfeasance or corruption are attended to without fear, favour or prejudice, though with due regard for the rights of those implicated. Investigations are carried out with the requisite professionalism, sensitivity and thoroughness.
