Nsfas board challenges Minister Manamela's decision to place scheme under administration
via The Citizen3 min read
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme Nsfas board is moving to interdict Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela’s decision to place the entity under administration. The remaining seven board members aim to prevent the appointment of Prof Hlengani Mathebula as administrator and suspend the decision's implementation. The board contends that the minister's intervention was procedurally flawed, undermined its authority, and failed to properly consult them as required by the Nsfas Act. They argue that placing Nsfas under administration was neither justified nor lawful. Advocate Tlou Ramashia will represent the board in seeking urgent high court relief for a judicial review. Board members also raised concerns about unfilled vacancies, stating that the minister "refused without reason" to appoint additional members to stabilize governance. Claims of Manamela’s alleged interference in the appointment of a permanent CEO are central to the dispute, with an allegedly unqualified candidate introduced into the recruitment process. This alleged interference reportedly led to resignations, including those of interim chair Mugwena Maluleke and committee chair Karabo Mohale. Board members claim they were removed just before an appearance before parliament’s portfolio committee on higher education, where they intended to address alleged meddling in CEO recruitment. Manamela has denied meddling in the board's affairs.
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