The University of South Africa has defended its vice-chancellor, Professor Puleng LenkaBula, amid allegations of maladministration and abuse of power from the group Save Unisa. As LenkaBula prepares for a second term starting in January 2026, critics claim she has purged staff and misused funds. Unisa highlights improvements in audits, finances and rankings under her leadership.
The University of South Africa (Unisa) has come out in strong support of its vice-chancellor, Professor Puleng LenkaBula, following accusations of abuse of power leveled by the activist group Save Unisa. These claims, which include staff purges and the misuse of public funds, have surfaced as LenkaBula gears up for her second five-year term beginning in January 2026.
Two years earlier, an independent assessor, Professor Themba Mosia, along with the Unisa Ministerial Task Team chaired by Vincent Maphai, issued critical reports on the institution's governance issues. Save Unisa has pointed to these findings to bolster their allegations against LenkaBula's administration.
In response, Unisa spokesperson Boitumelo Senokoane emphasized the vice-chancellor's achievements since her appointment in late 2020. "The principal and vice-chancellor stated in 2021, there’s been unqualified audits since then consistently so, amidst the allegations that were never proven of corruption," Senokoane said. He added that the university's reserves have grown to R22 billion, with investments reaching R12 billion. University rankings have also climbed, moving from 12th to between 6th and 7th in various global systems. Furthermore, nearly 60,000 students graduate annually under the current leadership.
While Save Unisa's concerns highlight ongoing tensions over governance at South Africa's largest distance-learning institution, Unisa maintains that LenkaBula's tenure has brought stability and progress. The debate underscores broader challenges in higher education administration in the country.
