Nobuhle Nkabane has been dismissed from her role as Minister of Higher Education and Training, following allegations that she misled Parliament regarding the selection of a contentious panel tasked with appointing Seta boards.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Buti Manamela to take over the position. Manamela, who previously served as the Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training during the seventh administration, expressed gratitude to Ramaphosa for the opportunity.
In addition, Dr. Nomusa Dube-Ncube has been named the new Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training. The presidency noted that Dube-Ncube brings extensive leadership experience, having previously held positions as MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, as well as Premier of KwaZulu-Natal.
According to Section 93(b) of the Constitution, the president is permitted to appoint up to two deputy ministers from outside the National Assembly.
Nkabane’s removal was anticipated due to accusations of dishonesty in her parliamentary statements regarding the controversial panel for Seta board appointments. It has been previously reported that Ramaphosa and senior ANC officials believed she had jeopardized both the party and her cabinet position.
After her dismissal on Monday, Nkabane remarked, “It has been a privilege to lead this important portfolio, and I am thankful to the sector and the people of South Africa for their support and for allowing me to serve in this capacity.”
