During a recent meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training in Parliament, members involved in appointing Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) distanced themselves from the appointment process, placing full blame on the former Minister of Higher Education. The committee heard from Mr. Asisipho Solani, Ms. Nelisiwe Semane, and Ms. Rhulani Ngwenya regarding their roles. They were called to the meeting after missing a previous session. Dr. Nkosinathi Sishi, the Director General for the Department of Higher Education and Training, also claimed he had no involvement in the appointments.
The committee questioned whether the former Minister misled Parliament about an independent panel making recommendations for SETA appointments. With her dismissal from the position, the committee felt stuck but deemed it necessary to continue the meeting to prevent similar issues in the future. Committee chairperson Mr. Tebogo Letsie emphasized that despite the minister’s removal, it was crucial to hear from the panel members to ensure accountability.
Several committee members insisted on proceeding with evidence gathering, asserting that the firing of the Minister did not excuse the panel members from their involvement in the scandal. The committee aimed to hold the panel accountable to help avoid similar occurrences in the future.
Ms. Rhulani Ngwenya, Deputy Director-General: Corporate Services, stated that she did not approve the 21 nominees appointed as Chairpersons of SETA Accounting Authority. Ms. Nelisiwe Semane, Chief of Staff in the Ministry, also denied participating in the selection of Chairpersons but was part of the recommendation process for SETA Accounting Authorities.
Mr. Asisipho Solani mentioned that his role was strictly as an advisor without extra compensation. Dr. Nkosinathi Sishi acknowledged he was aware of the appointment process but claimed it was not his responsibility to make the appointments, although he would sign agreements with Chairpersons as part of his duties.
The committee remarked on the unusual claims from all parties involved, highlighting that they all denied involvement despite working for the department. They welcomed the new Minister Mr. Buti Manamela and Deputy Minister Ms. Nomusa Dube-Ncube, concluding that the lack of transparency in the appointment process led to the current controversy, and only Adv Terry Motau SC could be considered independent in the process.
