The University of South Africa (UNISA) has dismissed claims that Zimbabwean national Walter Magaya is a graduate or alumnus of the institution. The university released a statement on Wednesday addressing misinformation circulating on social media and in a recent video where Magaya allegedly claimed to hold qualifications from UNISA.
According to the university, a verification process was conducted in response to a media inquiry. Based on the provided details, UNISA found no records indicating that Magaya had ever been enrolled or graduated from the institution.
“This means that UNISA does not recognize Mr. Magaya as a student or graduate. Any certificate he presents as evidence of a UNISA qualification is therefore fraudulent,” the statement read.
Further investigations by UNISA revealed that Magaya had also claimed to have received an honorary doctorate from the university. Officials have refuted this assertion, stating that no such honorary degree was ever awarded to him.
The university condemned these false claims, warning that such actions damage its reputation. Legal steps are being considered to address the matter, with UNISA’s internal authorities directed to take necessary action.
UNISA has urged the public to verify information directly with the institution to prevent the spread of misinformation.
