Ramaphosa Fires Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane
President Cyril Ramaphosa has dismissed Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane following ongoing controversy surrounding the appointment of Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA) board members.
The decision comes after months of public scrutiny over the inclusion of several ANC-aligned individuals in the boards, sparking accusations of political favouritism.
Nkabane’s removal was confirmed just a day before she was scheduled to appear before Parliament’s higher education committee to account for the appointment process. Her repeated failure to attend previous committee meetings had drawn criticism from opposition parties.
On Monday evening, Nkabane acknowledged her dismissal in a formal statement, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to lead the higher education portfolio. She described the role as a privilege and reaffirmed her dedication to national development.
Her removal follows calls earlier the same day from opposition figures, including the Democratic Alliance’s Karabo Khakhau, who urged the president to act decisively in light of the ongoing scandal.
It remains unclear whether Tuesday’s parliamentary meeting will proceed as planned. Nkabane had been expected to appear alongside other officials involved in the vetting and nomination of SETA board chairpersons.