The Select Committee on Education, Science, and Creative Industries has called on the Department of Higher Education and Training to remain focused on its mandate following the controversy surrounding the now-rescinded appointments of chairpersons to Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs).
The uproar erupted after leaked information revealed that Buyambo Mantashe, son of Minister Gwede Mantashe, had been appointed chairperson of the Manufacturing, Engineering, and Related Services SETA (MerSETA). The revelation led to chaos in a recent committee meeting, with MPs demanding answers and raising concerns over potential conflicts of interest.
Committee Chairperson Condemns Premature Judgement
Committee Chairperson Makhi Feni described the backlash as “unfortunate and unfair,” arguing that the situation was prematurely judged before due processes were concluded.
“It is unfortunate that the entire sector is being ridiculed based on allegations of conflict of interest without allowing the minister to finalize and present her report,” Feni stated in an interview. He emphasized that the minister had not yet tabled her final decisions before the leak sparked public outcry.
Feni defended the transparency of the initial selection process, which was overseen by an independent panel. However, he acknowledged that the leaked information had derailed proceedings, forcing Higher Education Minister Dr. Naledi Pandor to withdraw the appointments and restart the process under independent oversight.
MPs Demand Accountability
Despite Feni’s assurances, MPs expressed dissatisfaction during the committee meeting, questioning whether proper procedures were followed. Some argued that the initial appointments risked undermining public trust in SETAs, which are crucial for addressing South Africa’s skills development backlog.
Feni, however, insisted that critics should have waited for the minister’s final report before levelling accusations. “We cannot fault the minister on a decision that was never formally presented. The reckless leakage of information has only served to disrupt the process,” he said.
Next Steps: Independent Panel to Oversee New Appointments
With the initial appointments withdrawn, the department will now reopen the selection process under an independent panel to ensure transparency. Feni stressed that qualified, accountable candidates must be selected to lead SETA boards, free from undue influence.
“The focus should remain on skills development and not be derailed by political squabbles,” he said. “Whoever is appointed must have the necessary expertise and commitment to serve the sector effectively.”
As the controversy continues, stakeholders are watching closely to see whether the reset process will restore confidence in the SETA system or if further scrutiny will reveal deeper systemic issues.