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Following much public outcry and criticism towards the Minister for Higher Education and Training Dr Nobuhle Nkabane for her arrogant and defiant behaviour in parliament, President Cyril Ramaphosa has finally booted the minister and replaced her with her Deputy Minister Mr Buti Manamela.
In a rather unprecedented move, the President of South Africa announced on Monday, 21 July 2025, that he has dismissed Dr Nkabane in a brief statement. The Presidency said Ramaphosa removed Nkabane from her position as minister in terms of Section 91 (2) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa.
He appointed Mr. Buti Kgwaridi Manamela as Minister of Higher Education and Training. Mr. Manamela was, until this appointment, serving as Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training – a role he held from the 6th Administration.
“Consequently, President Ramaphosa has, in terms of Section 93 (b) of the Constitution, appointed Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube as Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training. Dr Dube’s long Government leadership experience includes serving as MEC for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) and Premier of KwaZulu-Natal Province, amongst other roles. Section 93 (b) empowers the President to appoint no more than two Deputy Ministers from outside the Assembly,” said the Spokesperson to the President Mr Vincent Magwenya.
Members of the Parliamentary Committee on Higher Education have expressed unhappiness with Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, whom they have accused of lying to the committee about the appointment of SETA boards Chairs. During questioning, it was found that there were irregularities in the appointment of some of the board members who were also linked to the African National Congress (ANC) and that she covered it up.
To make matters worse, Nkabane failed to show up for accountability at one of the scheduled sittings of the parliamentary committee, where she was expected to answer questions regarding allegations levelled against her, she instead opted to attend the annual national student leadership induction programme at the Buffalo City TVET College.
This annoyed members of the committee and even led to a dramatic outburst and argument.
Nkabane, who seemed to have been aware of her fate, issued a letter to the president on Monday, to thank President Cyril Ramaphosa for entrusting her with the role of being a minister.
“It has been a privilege to lead this important portfolio, and I am grateful to the sector and the people of South Africa for their support and allowing me to serve in this capacity. I remain committed to the service of our people and the advancement of our country’s development,” said Nkabane.
