Cape Town – The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Blade Nzimande has announced his intention to place the University of South Africa (UNISA) under administration.
This decision comes after a delay in response from UNISA following a request by Nzimande in August for the institution to explain why it should not be placed under administration.
The delay prompted the minister to move forward with his decision, Nzimande’s spokesperson, Ishmael Mnisi said.
“Being mindful of the legal and administrative requirements, the minister awaited the response of the Unisa Council and nothing of substance happened more than a month, instead the council is going about its business as if there is no pending decision to be taken.
“As a result, the minister cannot wait indefinitely without taking a decision,” Mnisi said.
Following the concerns highlighted by the Independent Assessor, Professor Themba Mosia, and the findings of the Ministerial Task Team led by Dr Vincent Maphai, I served a notice of my intention to place the University of South Africa (UNISA) under Administration. My final… pic.twitter.com/7YmWyVYgMS
— Minister Blade Nzimande (@DrBladeNzimande) October 5, 2023
Independent assessors and a Ministerial Task Team had reported financial and administrative maladministration at UNISA, leading to the conclusion that appointing an administrator is in the best interest of the university and higher education in the country.
This decision also follows legal disputes related to the constitution of UNISA’s council and the dismissal of its former registrar. Nzimande is expected to announce his final decision on Friday.
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Picture: Twitter/@DrBladeNzimande
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
