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By Johnathan Paoli
Higher Education and Training Minister Nobuhle Nkabane has issued a public statement addressing widespread concerns over her conduct during a recent parliamentary meeting, following strong reactions from MPs and a formal response from President Cyril Ramaphosa.
In her statement, Nkabane acknowledged the backlash and accepted that the situation could have been handled better.
“Upon reflection, and having considered the feedback received from various stakeholders, I acknowledge that the situation could have been handled differently. I take this opportunity to express my commitment to strengthening the relationship between the ministry, the department and the portfolio committee,” she said.
The controversy stems from the minister’s appearance before the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training on 30 May, where her responses and manner of engagement reportedly drew criticism from MPs and civil society observers.
The session, which was broadcast live and widely circulated on social media, focused on issues surrounding the appointment of board members to Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), key institutions in the country’s skills development and vocational training framework.
The minister reaffirmed her commitment to parliamentary oversight and cooperative governance.
“I intend to inculcate and maintain a constructive, respectful and professional working relationship with all Members of Parliament. It was never my intention to evade accountability or undermine the decorum of Parliament,” Nkabane said.
She pledged to continue leading with humility, aligned with the principles of the Constitution and parliamentary protocols.
In a separate statement issued by the Presidency, Ramaphosa acknowledged the public attention the matter has received, noting that the viral nature of the committee proceedings and subsequent commentary demanded greater sensitivity from public officials.
While not passing judgement, Ramaphosa emphasised that all ministers and senior public sector leaders must maintain professionalism and transparency in all engagements with Parliament and other oversight institutions.
“The president appreciates that what he has seen may not constitute the full scope or context of the engagement, and therefore, he has requested that the minister provides him with a detailed report,” the statement read.
The president specifically called for clarity on the process followed in appointing SETA board members, which was at the centre of the committee’s inquiries.
He stressed the importance of using portfolio committees as “a welcome platform on which to update the nation on the progress the government is making in all its portfolios.”
The presidency concluded by reiterating its expectation that Nkabane build a constructive relationship with the committee, while continuing to lead the department in line with principles of accountability and good governance.
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