NSFAS Reaffirms Support for New Leadership in Higher Education Ministry

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Board has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to partnering with the Ministry of Higher Education and Training as it enters a new chapter under fresh leadership. The announcement follows the appointments of Minister Buti Manamela and Deputy Minister Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, both of whom were officially sworn in at a ceremony held at Tuynhuys, Cape Town, in the presence of President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

The NSFAS Board warmly congratulated the new Minister and Deputy Minister, stating that their combined leadership heralds a promising new era for South Africa’s higher education landscape—one rooted in accessibility, innovation, and equity.

Endorsement of New Minister: Buti Manamela

Minister Buti Manamela is no stranger to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). A seasoned policymaker and youth advocate, Manamela previously served as Deputy Minister in the department during the sixth administration. His tenure was marked by close collaboration with student unions, the rollout of NSFAS funding reform, and support for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.

“The board is confident that Minister Manamela’s leadership will inspire ongoing progress and innovation within the sector, thereby promoting greater access and success for South Africa’s students,” read a statement from the NSFAS Board.

NSFAS expects Minister Manamela’s experience and vision to steer the higher education system toward inclusive, technology-enabled transformation, aligning with the broader goals of the National Development Plan (NDP) and the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) system reforms.

Deputy Minister Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube: A Seasoned Administrator

The appointment of Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube as Deputy Minister is seen as a major boost to the Ministry’s administrative and outreach efforts. Appointed under Section 93(b) of the Constitution, Dr Dube-Ncube brings an extensive portfolio of public service leadership, most notably as the former Premier of KwaZulu-Natal and MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.

The NSFAS Board lauded her for her proven commitment to governance, public accountability, and institutional strengthening:

“Her unwavering dedication will undoubtedly enhance the ministry’s efforts to support learners and institutions nationwide,” NSFAS stated.

Dr Dube-Ncube’s experience is expected to improve coordination between national, provincial, and institutional levels, strengthening the interface between government and higher education institutions.

A Renewed Mandate for Transformation in Higher Education

NSFAS, a critical entity in the post-school education ecosystem, plays a pivotal role in advancing the constitutional right to education. The Board reiterated that it remains fully aligned with the Ministry’s strategic goals, particularly as the department undergoes a realignment of its funding model.

As South Africa faces growing demand for higher education access, especially among low-income and first-generation students, NSFAS emphasized its commitment to:

• Expanding funding coverage for undergraduate and vocational learners

• Enhancing digital application and disbursement platforms

• Improving beneficiary support services

• Monitoring institutional compliance and performance

• Piloting new income-contingent loan schemes in line with the recommendations from the Ministerial Task Team on student funding

Political Context: Transition and Continuity

The reshuffle, which included the removal of Dr Nobuhle Nkabane from the Higher Education Ministry, is viewed as part of President Ramaphosa’s broader effort to rejuvenate executive leadership across critical departments.

Observers note that Minister Manamela’s continuity from his prior deputy role and his hands-on experience in student funding issues position him as a pragmatic leader capable of addressing pressing sector challenges, including recent student protests over NSFAS funding criteria and accommodation backlogs.

Looking Ahead: Collaboration and Innovation

The NSFAS Board concluded by highlighting the importance of strong institutional partnerships in achieving long-term transformation goals. It reiterated its readiness to work closely with Minister Manamela and Dr Dube-Ncube to drive innovation, fiscal sustainability, and inclusive access.

“The board looks forward to collaborating with both the Minister and the Deputy Minister to further these important goals,” it said.

The coming months are expected to bring important developments in student funding reforms, particularly around the development of a new Comprehensive Student Funding Model—an initiative that NSFAS will play a leading role in shaping and operationalizing.