President Cyril Ramaphosa has dismissed Minister of Higher Education and Training, Nobuhle Nkabane, amid growing controversy over her handling of appointments within the Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA).
Nkabane’s removal follows months of public and parliamentary scrutiny regarding the appointment of 21 SETA board chairpersons. In June, the former minister told Parliament that she had acted on the advice of an independent advisory group, which she claimed included Advocate Terry Motau. However, Motau and three others named as part of the advisory team have since publicly denied any involvement in the selection process, casting serious doubt on the transparency and legitimacy of the appointments.
In a statement from the Presidency, Ramaphosa confirmed Nkabane’s dismissal, stating that the decision was necessary to restore public confidence in the leadership of the Higher Education and Training Department.
To fill the vacancy, the President has appointed Buti Manamela as the new Minister of Higher Education and Training. Manamela, who previously served as Deputy Minister in the same portfolio, brings extensive experience in student activism and higher education policy.
Former KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has been appointed as the new Deputy Minister. Her appointment forms part of Ramaphosa’s broader effort to stabilise key departments and promote ethical leadership.
This reshuffle marks another significant step in the President’s ongoing drive to address governance challenges across national departments.
