The Minister for Higher Education and Training, Dr Blade Nzimande, met with the full Council of Walter Sisulu University (WSU) on 12 July 2011 to discuss the challenges that have led to serious problems at the university and the possible need for assistance. After consultation with the Council, the Minister decided to appoint an Independent Assessor to assess the nature and extent of problems facing the institution and to make recommendations on the way forward.
Minister Nzimande has appointed Dr Daniel J Ncayiyana as an independent assessor. The assessor will advise the Minister on the steps required to ensure that WSU is a strongly governed and well managed rural comprehensive university that takes its rightful place as the hub of education and development to support the inclusive growth of the Eastern Cape economy and the country at large.
In terms of the legal requirements, the independent assessor is required to complete his mandate expeditiously, diligently and professionally. The Assessor will provide the Minister with a report within ten working days of beginning his task. The terms of reference for the independent assessor were gazetted on Friday, 5 August 2011. The Assessor will begin his work on Monday, 15 August 2011. Teaching and learning at WSU should continue as normal while the Assessor and his team conduct their investigation.
Enquiries:
Dr Diane Parker
Tel: 012 3126214/5
E-mail: parker.d@dhet.gov.za
