The Central University of Technology (CUT) in Bloemfontein is embroiled in controversy following revelations that two highly qualified South African candidates were passed over for senior positions in favour of foreigners and less qualified white applicants.
“We have an exceptionally qualified black South African woman being overlooked in her own country,” stated Patriotic Alliance MP Ashley Sauls during the committee session.
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University Leadership Defends Hiring Foreigners
CUT Vice-Chancellor Professor Pamela Dube confirmed that while Mpekoa met the minimum requirements and was interviewed, the position ultimately went to another candidate. When pressed about whether the dean position represented a “scarce skill” that justified hiring a foreign national, Dube could not provide confirmation.
Further controversy emerged regarding the appointment of the Manager of Financial Reporting. Internal candidate Kiernan Jacobs, an assistant treasury accountant, was reportedly passed over in favour of Kobus Fourie, a white male whose consulting contract was converted to permanent employment despite apparently having fewer qualifications.
Department Claims Lack of Oversight
The Department of Higher Education revealed they had not approved the foreign national’s appointment, as required by protocol. Vice-Chancellor Dube admitted the institution failed to notify the department about the hiring decision formally.
Committee members highlighted concerning employment statistics within the faculty. Foreign nationals make up 15% of staff, while colored males and Indian females represent just 1.6% and 1%, respectively. Dube attributed these figures to the available talent pool and the university’s internationalisation strategy.
“The evidence suggests CUT systematically favors foreign nationals over equally or more qualified South Africans,” MP Sauls asserted. “This appears to be intentional discrimination against local candidates.”
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Calls for Institutional Accountability
The portfolio committee has demanded greater transparency from CUT’s leadership regarding their hiring practices, with particular scrutiny on whether employment equity policies are being properly implemented. The controversy has sparked broader discussions about preferential treatment in South Africa’s higher education sector.