PICTURE: INSTAGRAM/@jackie_phamotse
Author and social commentator Jackie Phamotse has sparked widespread discussion after raising concerns on social media about the deaths of several staff members at the University of South Africa (UNISA).
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Her posts questioned the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths and called for greater transparency, prompting mixed reactions from social media users. While some echoed her concerns and called for more information, others urged caution against drawing conclusions without verified facts.
Jackie Phamotse questions recent deaths
Taking to social media, Jackie shared a series of posts expressing concern over what she described as a number of staff members who had passed away in recent months.
Her comments quickly gained traction online, with many users debating whether there should be further scrutiny into the incidents, while others stressed the importance of allowing any official processes to unfold without speculation.
Wait! Are you guys aware of the deaths @unisa ! The countless staff members that are fighting for their lives. What’s really going on? 3 staff members dead! Same week? 🤯 How is this true, please educate us. They say the staff is struggling with mental breakdowns daily. What’s…
— Jackie Phamotse (@JackiePhamotse) August 2, 2026
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UNISA responds
In response to the growing conversation, UNISA issued a statement addressing the claims circulating online.
The university said it “condemns the misuse of the passing of its staff members for propaganda and gamesmanship.”
UNISA added that it extends its deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased staff members and urged the public to treat the matter with dignity and respect.
The institution also called on members of the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could cause unnecessary distress to grieving families and the broader university community.
Unisa condemns the misuse of the passing of its staff members for propaganda and gamesmanship. pic.twitter.com/UKecfTzDVg
— Unisa (@unisa) August 3, 2026
Social media remains divided
The discussion has continued across social media, with some supporting Jackie’s call for answers while others backed UNISA’s response, saying sensitive matters involving deceased individuals should be handled responsibly.
As the conversation continues, no evidence has been presented publicly linking the staff members’ deaths, and UNISA has urged the public not to use the deaths to fuel speculation or misinformation.
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