JOHANNESBURG- The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has distanced itself from Joel Sangweni, who falsely claimed to be a lecturer at the institution after a controversial social media post suggested he deliberately failed South African students while ensuring Zimbabwean students excelled.
The comment, posted on Facebook, stated: “We don’t make money here. Mina (loosely translated as ‘me’), I’m a lecturer. I will make your kids suffer and fail. Those from Zimbabwe will pass with distinctions.” The post quickly went viral, sparking widespread outrage on social media, with many interpreting it as a direct attack on South African students.
Following public backlash and calls for action, UJ issued a statement clarifying the situation. The university confirmed that Sangweni is not employed as a lecturer at the institution. “Mr. Sangweni is not employed by the university in any capacity. He briefly served as a tutor in 2024,” the statement read.
The university is now considering legal action against Sangweni over his claims. Although he later alleged that his Facebook account had been hacked, UJ stated that it is investigating the matter. “The university takes academic integrity seriously and will take strong steps, including legal action, against any person who, by omission or commission, undermines its commitment to academic integrity.”
UJ reaffirmed its stance on academic fairness, stating: “The University remains committed to academic integrity and does not tolerate conduct that undermines its values.”
Meanwhile, social media continues to buzz with calls for action, with some users demanding the deportation of foreign nationals and prioritization of employment for South Africans.
One user, @Ms_MoloGady, wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter): “Guys, these are the kind of people University of Johannesburg hires. @go2uj @mediauj, your lecturer Joel Sangweni is threatening the future of our kids & we are expected to be quiet because we will be called xenophobic? We will not tolerate such. Abahambee! ❗#abahambe #putSAfirst”
Another user, @sdu_mpembe, added: “We have a problem. How was he hired? Apparently, this Joel Sangweni, a Zimbabwean lecturer, fails South African students and gives his citizens distinctions.”
The controversy highlights broader tensions over employment and foreign nationals in South Africa. As the investigation continues, UJ remains firm in its stance against misinformation and any threats to its academic integrity.
