One-year-old GNU brings stability, but fails on other metrics

No goal: ActionSA, which chose to remain outside the government of national unity, gave a damning evaluation of the GNU. Photo: @Presidency/ZA/X
Observers say the government of national unity has kept parties such as the EFF and MK in check, but jobs, growth and reform remain elusive
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Mail & Guardian

an hour ago

• Mail & Guardian

Advance academic excellence through transformation and internationalisation at SA universities

The brain circulation among academics is an international phenomenon that must be celebrated instead of being despised. In recent public discourse, questions have been raised about South African universities prioritising hiring foreign academics over local talent. These claims, though understandable in the broader context of our country's unemployment problem, require deeper interrogation and a nuanced understanding of the higher education landscape, history and its purpose. The little-understood or even misunderstood concept of internationalisation of higher education in South Africa also needs to be clarified. As context for our higher education system, South Africa is an open economy and an integral part of the global academic community. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, our universities must remain at the cutting-edge of international developments to maintain their relevance in society, and to foster their excellence, globally, and general sustainability. In today's knowledge-driven economy, learning is no longer bound by geographical borders. Institutions of higher learning must therefore actively work with global scholarly pursuits to ensure South Africa remains locally relevant while retaining competitiveness in global research, innovation and intellectual contributions. Data from the Higher Education Management Information System shows that foreign nationals constitute just over 12% of academic staff at South Africa's 26 public universities, with higher concentrations in science, engineering and health faculties. Data on international mobility of European researchers in higher education in 2019 shows a decrease in the share of internationally mobile researchers from 2012 to 2019. For those mobile for three or more months, the share fell from 31% in 2012 to 27% in 2019. For short-term mobility, the decrease has been more dramatic, from 41% to 32% in the same period. Excellence in academia transcends national boundaries. Talented people from all backgrounds drive innovative research, scientific progress and interdisciplinary knowledge. This global collaboration is at the heart of what is known as the internationalisation of higher education — an intentional effort to integrate global perspectives into higher education. Such efforts aim to enhance the quality, goals, and delivery of higher education and research. Neglecting this international dimension risks stagnation and missed opportunities for growth. Cross-border partnerships offer access to cutting-edge expertise, diverse viewpoints, and varied learning methods, fostering the cross-pollination of ideas essential for advancing knowledge. South Africa has long embraced internationalisation as a mechanism to enrich its academic content and environment. Our institutions benefit from global networks that facilitate funding opportunities, research partnerships which seek to advance new knowledge and innovations, and scholarly exchange programmes — all critical components of a thriving higher education ecosystem. These international connections are not a luxury but a necessity in ensuring that South African universities maintain their standing in global competitiveness and intellectual discourse. The modern academic landscape is shaped by the seamless exchange of ideas, facilitated by technology and international collaborations. No country can develop its knowledge economy in isolation, and South Africa is no exception. Higher education must occur within an environment where leading experts share discoveries and emerging trends without geographical constraints. Transformation an imperative Several factors contribute to the current staffing situation within our institutions. First, under apartheid, the majority of South Africans were systematically excluded from pursuing qualifications and careers in fields such as science, engineering and medicine. The legacy of these discriminatory policies persists today, making it necessary for universities to rely on foreign nationals to fill critical academic roles. As a result, the importation of advanced skills remains an ongoing reality for South African higher education, notwithstanding the need for internationalisation to enhance quality higher education and development of local skills. Second, academic careers have not always appealed to local professionals, particularly when the private sector offers significantly higher salaries for roles requiring fewer qualifications. Additionally, the widespread use of temporary contracts — accounting for about half of universities' staff — creates uncertainty that discourages those seeking long-term job security for themselves and their families. These conditions have contributed to the fact that only just over half of academics at South African universities hold PhD qualifications, which is a necessity for development of new knowledge, growth of higher education and also still falling short of the National Development Plan's goal of 75% by 2030. The historical exclusion of the majority population led to legislation promoting employment equity and workplace transformation to which our universities remain compliant. While universities strive to attract and retain local academics in pursuit of diversity, equity, and excellence, the scarcity of qualified local candidates often makes international recruitment a necessary strategy. Benefits of internationalisation Internationalisation and the development of local academic talent are not opposing goals. Rather, they are mutually reinforcing: each enhances the other's value and effectiveness. Prioritising opportunities for local scholars should go hand in hand with recognising that their growth is strengthened through international expertise. The presence of foreign academics in our institutions fosters mentorship, collaborative research and skills exchange, ultimately benefiting both local scholars and students. The cross-pollination of ideas and methodologies enriches academic discourse and drives innovation that serves both South Africa and the global community. Moreover, internationalisation does not equate to sidelining South African academics. On the contrary, many of our brightest minds have flourished through international exposure, and our universities remain committed to nurturing local talent through initiatives such as grants, postdoctoral fellowships, and programmes like the New Generation of Academics Programme, Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme, and Future Professors Programme. These initiatives specifically support historically under-represented groups. Furthermore, many South African scholars have gone on to contribute meaningfully to global scholarship. Thus, the current public discourse, which seeks to dismiss the importance of links to international academic risks leading the nation down a harmful path. We cannot forget the damaging effects of apartheid-era academic isolation. As we continue to rebuild from that legacy, we must resist being misled by those who, under the guise of protecting national interests, advocate for a narrow and inward-looking approach. Our goal should not be exclusion but integration — creating dynamic universities where diverse, talented minds converge to shape a better future. A collaborative future Instead of viewing internationalisation as a threat to local employment, we should see it as an opportunity for shared progress. South African universities must continue to cultivate local academic talent while embracing global perspectives that drive innovation, research, and thought leadership. The focus should be on merit, strategic value, and academia's role in tackling societal challenges. As South Africa competes in a global knowledge economy, our institutions must stay internationally connected to ensure students and scholars benefit from the best expertise, regardless of national origin. Integrating international knowledge is not a dismissal of local talent but a strategic move to enhance our intellectual capacity. We must remember that true academic progress does not thrive on exclusion; it flourishes through diversity, shared inquiry and an unwavering commitment to excellence. By welcoming global perspectives while fostering homegrown talent, South African higher education will continue to drive effective solutions, groundbreaking discoveries, and transformative leadership that benefit not only our nation but the world. The question is not whether we should work internationally; it is how boldly we will position ourselves as a knowledge powerhouse in the years to come, drawing on both local and international talent. South Africa's universities have a choice: to insulate themselves or to lead. The path forward is clear — leadership through knowledge, collaboration and a global vision. Dr Phethiwe Matutu is the chief executive of Universities South Africa.

The Herald

2 hours ago

• The Herald

Time to discuss the youth — but maybe not

Opinion Given all the spectacles of human weakness, wickedness and wilful self-delusion, Youth Day was quiet Premium 20 June 2025 It's been a startling few days, not least for the great and the good (and also some ANC people) roped into President Cyril Ramaphosa's National Dialogue™ (terms and condition apply), who learnt over the weekend that the process will cost about R700m, presumably because their musings will be engraved directly onto sheets of platinum. According to Mduduzi Mbada, deputy president Paul Mashatile's chief of staff, the reason for this price tag is that 'democracy is not cheap', which is, I suppose, why the Guptas paid so much for it when they bought it from some of Mashatile's current and former colleagues. ..

IOL News

3 hours ago

• IOL News

The political gamble of Floyd Shivambu: Is he overestimating his popularity?

Floyd Shivambu's political maneuvers raise questions about his future in MK and the potential for a new party. As he navigates a treacherous political landscape, will he succeed or face expulsion?" Image: X/floydshivambu Call South African politics and politicians many things but predictable is not one of them. Fresh from Liam Jacobs crossing over from the Democratic Alliance to his political nemesis, The Patriotic Alliance, South Africans were treated to another bombshell this week. Former EFF founder turned former uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Secretary General, Floyd Shivambu announced he was mulling the idea of forming a new party of his own - but not yet. He will remain a member of MK for now. Confused? Don't be. Its the chess game of politics. Shivambu is pulling off the same stunt as that of former president Jacob Zuma, now MK leader. Remember how Zuma made the shocking announcement he was leading MK while still a member of the ANC in 2023? He was later expelled from the ANC and returned leading the pack with MK's spectacular victory at the last general elections. Malema did the same when he too was expelled from the ANC in 2012 - and went on to form the EFF together with Shivambu. The EFF too, drew massive support away from the ANC, which was the catalyst of the party's subsequent decline. Shivambu is playing the same game. Mudding the political waters. Daring the MK to expel him. Except he is not Zuma. Or Malema. South Africans don't take well to political chameleons. Party hopping does not work unless you are a huge political figure. Shivambu is a well known figure - but not a powerful leader in his own right. He was given wings by parties led by powerful public figures who command support. Shivambu was the think-tank behind the EFF and later MK strategist and national organiser. Less than a year after joining MK, Shivambu's wings were clipped before he could fly. Was that the issue? Was Shivambu seen as a threat within MK by Zuma's inner circle? His feud with Zuma's daughter Duduzile played out on social media as she unleashed her fury at his character, calling him the 'worst thing to happen to MK'. And, despite her apology, its well known the animosity between them persisted. The tussle for Zuma's ear and ultimately control of the party. Shivambu certainly hinted at that. His axing as MK Secretary General was the final clipping of his wings and clearly ruffled his feathers enough for him to make the decision to go out on his own - at some point. Shivambu no doubt has the backing of funders who call the tune. That's just how it works. Those who pay the piper, call the tune. But is Shivambu overestimating his popularity in taking on MK and the EFF? Calling the EFF a 'cult' and Zuma 'gullible' is hardly a recipe for success when those leaders still command a massive following, especially on the ground. And more critically, Shivambu lacks the charm - crucial when mobilising support at grass roots level. Both Malema and Zuma use their personal populism which appeals to their support base. Malema, a political demagogue, uses his kill the boer song to rile African support while Zuma's identity in Zulu tribalism is his draw card. Both the EFF and MK have leaders as their brand identities. Shivambu taking them on is brave but a huge miscalculation. Already, the response to him potentially forming his own party is being shot down by most South Africans. Social media is abuzz as South Africans weigh in. Shivambu is being called out as not trust worthy for visiting fraud accused fugitive pastor Shepherd Bushiri. He is also being taken to task for remaining within MK while talking of forming a new party. His bold announcement may have backfired. During his media briefing, a confident Shivambu threw several salvos at MK - a party he still remains a member of. He accused Zuma of being surrounded by 'political scoundrels' who he said 'take drugs and tweet at night' - a thinly veiled reference to Duduzile, the only one who has openly criticised Shivambu with her late night tweets previously. Clearly Shivambu is being led to believe the time is right for another political party. Its a path many before him have followed, some popular, others simply overestimating their popularity. And, despite the misguided reference to Zuma as 'gullible,' Shivambu knows too well his days with MK are numbered. He will be expelled. Others before him faced the same fate for far less transgressions within the party. Zuma will not tolerate Shivambu campaigning for another party while within the MK. And Shivambu's expulsion is not a question of if - but when. And, given Zuma's fury at Shivambu, that expulsion is likely to be fast and furious. Until then, Shivambu is a man on the ledge. ** Zohra Teke is an independent writer and journalist. *** The views expressed here do not necessarily represent those of Independent Media or IOL IOL Opinion Zohra Teke Image: Independent Newspapers