Universities defend employment of foreign academics amid data gaps

The Higher Education and Training Department has admitted that it lacks a complete picture of foreign national employment at South African universities, citing incomplete and flawed data from the institutions. Officials told Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Higher Education that while more than 6,700 foreign academics are employed across the sector, the department cannot accurately verify their immigration or employment status. Universities South Africa CEO Phethiwe Matutu explains the sector’s position and the challenges surrounding the collection of reliable employment data. Follow us on our new Facebook page: https://tinyurl.com/2p9m6y52 #Newzroom405 Tune into Newzroom Afrika DStv channel 405 for more.