By: Bright Ntuli
President Cyril Ramaphosa has dismissed Minister of Higher Education and Training, Nobuhle Nkabane, following months of mounting controversy surrounding the appointment of Sector Education and Training Authority (Seta) board chairpersons.
Nkabane’s axing comes in the wake of allegations that she misrepresented the involvement of a prominent advisory panel in the selection process. In June, she told Parliament that her appointment of 21 Seta board chairpersons was guided by an advisory group, which she claimed included respected legal expert Advocate Terry Motau.
However, Motau and three other individuals named by Nkabane have since publicly denied any involvement in the process, raising serious questions about transparency and governance within the department.
In a statement from the Presidency on Monday, Ramaphosa confirmed that Buti Manamela has been appointed as the new Minister of Higher Education and Training. Nomusa Dube-Ncube will serve as Deputy Minister.
The Presidency said the changes are aimed at restoring integrity and confidence in the department, which plays a crucial role in shaping skills development and vocational training in South Africa.
Nkabane, who was appointed to the portfolio less than a year ago, had faced growing criticism from stakeholders in the education and training sector, with calls for greater accountability in the management of Seta appointments.
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