The University of Johannesburg (UJ) welcomes the judgment of the Labour Court in the matter of University of Johannesburg v Andries Helani, in which the Court ordered the former senior employee to pay damages of R18.18 million to the University arising from breaches of his employment contract linked to corruption and fraud in the accreditation of privately owned student accommodation.

The judgment follows comprehensive forensic investigations commissioned by the University. Based on these findings, UJ has taken decisive action and continues to pursue various courses of action, including civil recovery proceedings to ensure those responsible are held fully accountable. In bringing this civil action against Mr Helani, UJ has positioned itself at the forefront of institutions taking active steps to hold individual employees personally accountable for corruption in the sector.

The University believes the judgment sends a strong message that corruption and abuse of positions of trust within the higher education sector will not be tolerated and that institutions have both the responsibility and the ability to take meaningful action to recover losses and protect the integrity of student support initiatives. UJ’s action in this matter is intended to set a precedent for the sector to follow and is hoped to act as a deterrent for those tempted to engage in fraudulent conduct.

Professor Mpedi, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of UJ, said: “This judgment reinforces an important principle: institutions entrusted with public resources have a responsibility to act when wrongdoing is uncovered. UJ has taken a firm stance against corruption, and we are proud to be at the forefront of addressing these challenges. We are confident that our actions will help protect the reputation and integrity of the South African higher education sector.”

The University’s efforts to root out fraud and corruption perpetrated by those looking to exploit funding are ongoing.

The University remains committed to strengthening governance, enhancing oversight mechanisms and ensuring that funding intended to expand access to higher education is used for its intended purpose: supporting student success. UJ will continue to work closely with stakeholders across the higher education sector, including government and NSFAS, to improve oversight and safeguard student funding.

The University also confirms that the appropriate and necessary criminal charges have been laid against the individuals involved and the University will continue to work with law enforcement in this regard.