Cape Town, July 22, 2025 — South Africa’s higher education leadership has undergone a significant change as Buti Manamela, former Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, was officially sworn in as the new Minister of the portfolio.
Joining him in leadership is former KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, who was also sworn in as Deputy Minister during the same ceremony held at Tuynhuys, in the presence of President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
These appointments follow the removal of Dr Nobuhle Nkabane as Minister of Higher Education and Training on Monday evening.
Dr Dube-Ncube’s appointment was made in accordance with Section 93(b) of the South African Constitution, which permits the President to appoint up to two Deputy Ministers from outside the National Assembly.
The new appointments mark a new chapter for South Africa’s higher education sector, with expectations of revitalised leadership and reform.