In early May 2026, anti-immigrant protests occurred in major South African cities, raising concerns about rising xenophobia in post-apartheid South Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa urged citizens to show solidarity with their African neighbors, while foreign governments expressed their discontent. Police were deployed to manage the situation and prevent violence during the demonstrations, which featured participants in traditional Zulu attire, as seen in Johannesburg on April 29, 2026.

An online campaign has been identified as a catalyst for the recent surge in xenophobia in South Africa, according to Al Jazeera. This backlash has sparked significant concern and discussion regarding the implications of such sentiments in the country.

South Africa's leading universities are shifting their approach to artificial intelligence by moving away from policing its use. Instead, they are focusing on redesigning their teaching, assessment, and certification methods to adapt to the integration of AI in education.

A lecturer at a college in Tshwane has lost an appeal against his dismissal following sexual harassment allegations, according to TimesLIVE. An arbitrator upheld the institution's decision to dismiss him after finding that he had sent inappropriate messages to a student via WhatsApp. The ruling confirms the college's handling of the matter and brings the lecturer's challenge to an end, with the dismissal remaining in effect following the arbitration outcome.

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has been recognized as Africa's leading university for sustainability impact, according to TimesLIVE. The vice-chancellor emphasized the institution's commitment to being the best university for the world rather than striving to be the best globally.

South Africa's anti-migrant sentiment has led to a loss of support from other African teams during the World Cup, as expressed by a representative who noted a lack of action from South Africans regarding the situation in their country. The comments highlight concerns over rising hate against migrants in South Africa.