Question NW3984 to the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
10 November 2022 - NW3984
King, Ms C to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
(1)Whether, in light of the fact that the Historically Disadvantaged Institutions Development Grant (HDI-DG) was converted to the Sibusiso Bengu Development Programme (SB-DP), he will furnish Ms C V King with the closeout report of the HDI-DG; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) (a) what sets the SB-DP apart from the HDI-DG, (b) how were the funds of the SB-DP, utilised to cover the 2021-22 financial year shortfall, identified on page 37 of his department’s annual report in relation to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme and (c) what total amount was spent on the gala event of the inauguration of the SB-DP?
Reply:
The Historically Disadvantaged Institutions Development Grant was converted to the Sibusiso Bengu Development Programme (SB-DP). There is no close-out report of the Historically Disadvantaged Institutions Development Grant as it was not discontinued, the programme has been enhanced and is ongoing. The Sibusiso Bengu Development Framework provides the rationale for enhancing the programme.
(a) Following extensive consultations with universities and various interest groups, the Historically Disadvantaged Institutions Development Programme was renamed the Sibusiso Bengu Development Programme (SB-DP) in honour of Prof Bengu.
The SB-DP has been developed to support capacity development in seven strategic areas as outlined in the SB-DP Framework document. The seven strategic areas are institutional management and governance; institutional infrastructure and facilities; student experience; staff development and support; academic enterprise; research and innovation; and relationships and partnerships.
(b) The funds were transferred to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) in accordance with the regulatory framework governing the transfer of voted funds and requisite prior approvals.
(c) The Department did not host a gala event. It conducted an official launch of the programme. The launch catered for more than 150 guests at a total cost of R410 136.39 which is broken-down as follows:
|
Item |
Cost (R) |
|
Venue and Catering |
90 800.00 |
|
Décor including Sound and Video |
69 336.39 |
|
Media Coverage |
250 000.00 |
|
Total |
410 136.39 |