FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Johannesburg, Tuesday, 05 March 2024 - Public Interest SA strongly condemns the recent decision by the University of Cape Town (UCT) to invite disgraced former Eskom executive Matshela Koko to lecture students on "ethics and professionalism." This decision undermines the principles of ethical leadership and academic integrity and jeopardises efforts to combat corruption in South Africa.
Mr Koko's tenure at Eskom was marked by allegations of corruption and malfeasance, including his close association with the Gupta family and his involvement in various procurement irregularities. His invitation to lecture on ethics and professionalism sends a dangerous message that individuals implicated in corruption can be rehabilitated and given a platform to influence young minds.
Public Interest SA has taken swift action in response to this concerning development. We have written a letter to UCT Vice Chancellor Professor Reddy, requesting that UCT take immediate steps to rectify this error in judgment. Furthermore, we call on the university to review its policies regarding guest lecturers and ensure that future invitations are extended to individuals who exemplify the values of integrity, transparency, and ethical leadership.
As a progressive institution of higher learning, UCT has a responsibility to uphold the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct. By providing a platform to Mr Koko, the university is complicit in normalising unethical behaviour and undermining our national anti-corruption strategy.
Public Interest SA stands firm in our commitment to fostering a culture of integrity and accountability within our academic institutions. We urge UCT to reconsider its decision to invite Mr Koko and take immediate steps to rectify this error in judgment even if this is done after the fact.
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About Public Interest SA | https://www.publicinterest.org.za
Public Interest SA is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting integrity, transparency, and accountability in South Africa.