Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Dr Blade Nzimande statement on the report of the Independent Assessor into the affairs of the University of South Africa
By Notice No. 2480 in the Government Gazette No. 46904 of 13 September 2022, in my capacity as the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation appointed Professor Themba Mosia as the Independent Assessor to conduct an investigation into the affairs of University of South Africa (UNISA).
In accordance with the provisions of section 47 (1A) of the Act, I extended the appointment for a period not exceeding 90 days from 13 December 2022. The extension of appointment was published in Government Gazette No 47738, Notice No 2869 of 14 December 2022.
The investigation was concluded within the period stipulated in the extension Notice; however, at the request of the Independent Assessor, I approved that he submits the Report by 31 March 2023.
Section 47(2) of the Higher Education Act, No. 101 of 1997 (the Act), as amended states that the Minister must within 90 days of receiving the report, provide a copy of the report to the council concerned, table the report before the National Assembly and publish such report in the Gazette.
In fulfilling the requirements of section 47(2) of the Act, I have provided a copy of the Report to the Council of the University. I am in the process of publishing it in the Government Gazette, expected to be issued in due course. Upon such publication, I will be submitting the Report to the Speaker, Hon Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula for tabling before the National Assembly.
I am currently studying the Report and will contemplate the way forward regarding the implementation of the recommendations, after due process as guided by the prescripts of the Act.
I would like to thank Professor Mosia immensely for the hard work in conducting the assessment. I wish to also express my appreciation to the entire University community for their co-operation with the investigation.
I thank all stakeholders who made presentations to the Independent Assessor, and all who cooperated with the Independent Assessor to ensure that the investigation was done and concluded successfully.
Enquiries:
Ishmael Mnisi
Cell: 066 037 8859
