New minister, old problems: Can Buti Manamela restore trust in higher education?
While President Cyril Ramaphosa's decision to dismiss Nobuhle Nkabane as higher education minister following accusations that she misled Parliament has been widely welcomed, questions remain about whether her replacement, Buti Manamela, is the right person to tackle the sector's mounting challenges.
Manamela brings considerable experience to the role, having served as deputy minister since 2017. However, he faces a formidable task ahead, with rebuilding trust in the higher education sector being his most pressing priority.
High on his agenda will be addressing alleged corruption within the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and reforming the appointment process for SETA chairpersons. Nkabane came under fire for misleading Parliament about an 'independent panel' that allegedly approved politically connected individuals for SETA board positions.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) presents another significant challenge, having consistently failed to deliver on its mandate to support deserving students.
Where Manamela is expected to excel is in advancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges. As a graduate of Mamelodi TVET College himself, he brings both personal experience and genuine passion to this critical area of skills development.
In this week's Friday Briefing, News24 education reporter Prega Govender examines the challenges and opportunities facing the new minister, while research associate at the University of Johannesburg, Ahmed Essop, highlights two priority areas that should top Manamela's agenda as he settles into his new role.
Additionally, in-depth writer Muhammad Hussain discusses the recently released PwC report with Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson, exploring both the report's findings and the minister's working relationship with his deputy.
Read the full analysis and Q&A below.
Deputy steps up: Manamela's 7-year apprenticeship put to the test
Newly appointed Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela has his hands full. He'll need to clean up a sector plagued by systemic failures, from students left stranded by problematic private colleges to the ongoing crises at NSFAS and the SETAs, writes Prega Govender.
here.
Supplied/GCIS
A fresh start for a broken ministry: Buti Manamela's work is cut out
The multiple challenges confronting higher education minister Buti Manamela are not insurmountable. It requires a minister who is focused, open to engagement and committed to working with the key stakeholders in higher education to map a way forward, writes Ahmed Essop.
Read the rest of the submission here.
Q&A with Dean Macpherson | 'I think I was incredibly transparent'
From security fears to tough decisions on controversial leases and report disclosures, Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson outlines the process, the risks and why no shortcuts will be taken in cleaning up a troubled department.
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