The Central University of Technology (CUT) in Bloemfontein is under growing public scrutiny amid accusations that it gives preference to foreign nationals over South African citizens in its hiring decisions.
The allegations have ignited a heated debate about employment equity at the Free State-based university, drawing backlash from political parties and members of the public alike.
This week, the African National Congress (ANC) in the Free State released a strongly worded statement claiming that 15% of CUT’s current staff are foreign nationals.
The party has called for a thorough reassessment of the university’s hiring practices, emphasising the need to prioritise employment for South African graduates at publicly funded institutions.
“We find this unacceptable,” said an ANC representative. “State-supported entities must ensure that local professionals are given a fair opportunity to participate in the job market.”
Adding to the controversy, Patriotic Alliance (PA) Member of Parliament Ashley Sauls accused Vice-Chancellor Professor Pamela Dube of favouring non-South African candidates during recruitment, further fuelling demands for accountability.