Nzimande ‘I won’t resign’ He Says After NSFAS Board Dissolves

Nzimande ‘I won’t resign’ He Says After NSFAS Board Dissolves. South Africa Higher Education sector has been thrust into the spotlight following significant administrative turmoil. Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Blade Nzimande, has declared that he will not resign after facing mounting pressure following the dissolution of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) board. This declaration comes amidst a chorus of calls for his resignation from several political parties and organizations.

Dissolution of NSFAS Board and Subsequent Fallout

Minister Nzimande spoke to the media on Sunday to explain his decision to dissolve the NSFAS board last Friday and place the institution under administration. The decision followed the resignation of NSFAS chair Ernest Khosa, sparking widespread criticism from opposition parties such as the Democratic Alliance (DA) and ActionSA, and civic organizations like the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa).

Outa has explicitly called for Nzimande resignation, threatening that if he fails to step down, President Cyril Ramaphosa should intervene by dismissing him. Despite these pressures, Nzimande responded firmly, “Who is saying I must resign? I will not resign, I am not appointed by them.”

Minister Nzimande’s Justification for Board Dissolution

During the media briefing, Nzimande outlined a series of failures attributed to the NSFAS board, which necessitated its dissolution. He criticized the board for not submitting a corrected annual report to Parliament and for their sluggish and ineffective response to student queries. Moreover, the board was faulted for not fully implementing crucial recommendations from the Werksmans report, including terminating contracts with irregularly appointed direct payment service providers.

Allegations and Denials

The situation escalated with leaked recordings that allegedly implicate Nzimande and Khosa in corruption, leading to Outa calls for the minister’s resignation. Nzimande has denied all allegations against him, asserting his ongoing commitment to rectify the operational deficiencies within NSFAS.

Impact on Students and Educational Institutions

Nzimande highlighted that the NSFAS management inability to ensure timely payments of student allowances has jeopardized the stability of numerous universities and technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges across the country. These delays and mismanagement have not only adversely affected students’ welfare but have also tarnished the reputations of NSFAS, the department, and the government at large.

New Leadership and Future Directions

In a move to stabilize the situation, Sithembiso Freeman Nomvalo has been appointed as the new NSFAS administrator, effective from April 12. Nzimande reassured stakeholders that the NSFAS would continue its operations seamlessly during this administrative transition, including making all necessary payments.

Minister Nzimande stressed that the decision to dissolve the board was made after careful consideration of all potential implications, particularly concerning NSFAS employees and students. He reiterated his commitment to enhancing the functionality of NSFAS through this decisive action.

Conclusion

As the situation unfolds, the higher education sector in South Africa remains under intense scrutiny. Minister Nzimande firm stance against resignation and his plans for restructuring NSFAS reflect his attempt to navigate through this crisis.

Stakeholders are watching closely as these developments will have far-reaching implications on the future of student financial aid and overall educational governance in the country.