{
  "id": 4671366,
  "title": "Wits rejects ‘fake news’ claim that 98% of its staff are foreign nationals",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/31/wits-rejects-fake-news-claim-that-98-of-its-staff-are-foreign",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-31T16:21:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "IOL",
    "slug": "iol",
    "url": "https://iol.co.za/the-star/2026-08-31-wits-rejects-fake-news-claim-that-98-of-its-staff-are-foreign-nationals/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Wits University has firmly rejected claims that up to 98% of its staff are foreign nationals and that South African talent is being sidelined for jobs at the institution. In a statement, the Johannesburg-based university clarified that international employees account for only 9% of its workforce. Responding to false social media rumors alleging the university prioritizes foreign nationals over South African citizens, particularly unemployed graduates, Wits emphasized its commitment to a balanced institution that values both South African leadership and global expertise where necessary. The university's internationalization strategy aims to develop South African leadership while leveraging the best global expertise, ensuring a strategically balanced approach. The university urged the public to refrain from sharing misinformation that fosters division in the community.",
  "summary": "Wits University says international staff make up 9% of its workforce, rejecting social-media claims that 98% of its employees are foreign nationals and that South Africans are being overlooked.",
  "key_points": [
    "Wits University denies 98% of staff are foreign nationals claim",
    "International employees make up only 9% of workforce",
    "University promotes balanced institution with South African leadership"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}