University of Johannesburg Denies Employing Zimbabwean Lecturer Accused of Favoritism Toward Zimbabwean Students

University of Johannesburg Denies Employing Zimbabwean Lecturer Accused of Favoritism Toward Zimbabwean Students –  The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has disassociated itself from Joel Sangweni, a man who claimed to be a lecturer at the institution, following a controversial Facebook post in which he appeared to favour Zimbabwean students over their South African counterparts.

Social media erupted in anger after a post by Sangweni went viral, reading: “We don’t make money here, mina I’m a lecturer, I will make your kids suffer and fail, those from Zimbabwe will pass with distinctions.”

The post triggered widespread outrage, with many perceiving it as a deliberate threat to South African students.

Public pressure mounted as UJ was tagged across various platforms, with users demanding answers and accountability.

One user, @Ms_MoloGady, expressed frustration, writing: “Guys these are the kind of people University of Johannesburg hires… 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. Abahambe❗#abahambe #putSAfirst.”

Another user, @sdu_mpembe, asked: “We have a problem, how was he hired? Apparently this Joel Sangweni, a Zimbabwean lecturer, fails South African students and gives his citizens distinctions.”

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In response to the backlash, UJ issued a statement clarifying that Sangweni is not employed by the university in any capacity. “Mr. Sangweni is not employed by the university. He briefly served as a tutor in 2024,” the university confirmed.

UJ added that it is investigating the matter further, especially after Sangweni claimed that his Facebook account had been hacked. The institution emphasized its commitment to upholding academic integrity and is considering legal action against him.

“The University takes academic integrity seriously and will not tolerate any conduct that undermines its values. Strong steps, including legal action, will be taken where necessary,” the statement read.

Meanwhile, the controversy has reignited debates about foreign nationals working in South Africa, with some calling for their deportation and demanding job prioritisation for locals.