Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
23 July 2025 | 16:18 CAT

Photo by Keletso Mkhwanazi

The sacking of Higher Education Minister Nthubuhle Nkabani has been met with applause from student bodies across South Africa, but the South African Students Federation (SASF) warns that “deep cracks” in the higher education sector remain unresolved.

President of SASF, Keamogetswe Masike, described the removal as “a victory for all young people in South Africa,” but questioned its impact. “We were excited because on numerous occasions, we attempted to engage the department,” said Masike. “Our memorandum on NSFAS and student accommodation fell on deaf ears.”

He revealed that despite a national shutdown on June 25, where students from across the country marched to submit their grievances, the promised face-to-face meeting with the former minister was cancelled at the last hour. “It became clear we were dealing with ignorant and incompetent people who avoid accountability,” Masike stated.

Minister Nkabani’s tenure was marred by repeated NSFAS payment failures, delays in student allowances, and housing crises. “I’ve just received letters from students being evicted. NSFAS is refusing to release their allowances,” said Masike, highlighting how many students remain stranded at home as the second semester begins.

The appointment of new Minister Buti Manamela brings little comfort. “He’s not new. He was part of the previous failed administration,” Masike remarked. “We’re not expecting miracles, but he knows the dynamics. He must act.”

Masike also called for the end of institutional autonomy that universities use to avoid responsibility. “These are public institutions, not private companies. Yet they commodify beds and access to resources like Wi-Fi and transport,” he said. “They withhold certificates due to student debt. Fees haven’t fallen. In fact, they’ve risen since 2015.”

SASF has called for an amendment bill in Parliament to scrap historical debt, which Masike says traps graduates in unemployment.

Addressing corruption, Masike pointed to “cartels and gangsters” who have hijacked public institutions. He cited fintech companies appointed in 2020 to manage NSFAS disbursements despite lacking experience who charged students “exorbitant levies” to access their allowances. “It’s theft, and it happens at all levels,” Masike said.

Despite the leadership change, student leaders maintain that the struggle continues. “We’ve won a small battle, but the war is far from over,” Masike concluded.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round-Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Keamogetswe Masike.