Department of Higher Education and Training suspends officials following Minister Nzimande’s recording in a meeting with his department’s communications unit
The Department of Higher Education and Training noted with extreme disappointment recent articles in the media and an audio recording of Minister Blade Nzimande, in which he was addressing his communication staff in a meeting.
Following the media reports and given the seriousness of this matter, the department immediately conducted an internal investigation which has led to the suspension of two officials based at the head office in Pretoria.
The Director-General of the Department of Higher Education and Training, Dr Nkosinathi Sishi has cautioned officials against wrongdoing, to act responsibly in their line of work and to familiarize themselves with the code of ethical conduct in government.
The code of conduct for public servants demands of government employees to not use or disclose any official information for personal gain or the gain of others. It is against this background that the Department has acted swiftly and continues with its internal investigations while the two officials remain on suspension. The matter is also with the South African Police Service for further investigations.
Enquiries:
Mr Lucky Masuku
Acting Chief-Director: Corporate Communication
Cell: 082 485 9267
