Students at the department of higher education a d training in Pretoria photo by Dimakatso Modipa
By Keamogetswe Masike
President South African Students Federation
The South African Students’ Federation (SASF) is appalled by the consistent
display of incompetence and lack of transparency exhibited by Minister of
Higher Education, Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane.
The minister’s actions have brought the
department into disrepute, and her leadership has failed to serve the interests of students and the broader community.
GROUNDS FOR REMOVAL
The minister’s removal is necessitated by the following reasons:
1. Inconsistent Behavior: Minister Nkabane has demonstrated a pattern of
inconsistent behavior, including the withdrawal of public statements and
commitments made to student organizations.
2. Lack of Transparency in NSFAS Board Appointments:
The minister’s office has been accused of misleading Parliament about the independence of the panel responsible for recommending appointments to the boards of Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs).
3. Questionable Integrity:
The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education has expressed concerns about the transparency and integrity of the appointment process, highlighting that the names submitted appear to be an extension of the ministry rather than an independent panel.
4. Misrepresentation:
Committee members believe they were misled by previous representations made regarding the independence of the panel and the integrity of the appointment process.
5. Failure to Prioritize Student Interests:
Minister Nkabane’s actions have consistently demonstrated a lack of prioritization of student interests, instead serving the interests of the ruling party and her own political agenda.
SASF’S DEMANDS
In light of the above, SASF demands that:
1. Minister Nkabane Vacates Office: Minister Nkabane should immediately step
down from her position as Minister of Higher Education.
2. Thorough Investigation: A thorough investigation should be conducted into
the appointment process and the minister’s actions.
3. Accountability: Minister Nkabane should be held accountable for her actions, and those found guilty of wrongdoing should face consequences.
The South African Students’ Federation (SASF) will not stand idly by while the
minister’s actions continue to undermine the interests of students and the
broader community.
We demand that Minister Nkabane vacates office and that the department prioritizes transparency and accountability.
Failure to meet these demands will result in escalated action, including mass mobilization and advocacy campaigns.