Question NW2495 to the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
13 July 2023 - NW2495
Sonti, Ms NP to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
With reference to the recommendations contained in the report submitted to him by Professor Norman Duncan, in which it is stated that students claimed that they were scammed by the employees of the Central University of Technology, (a) what steps will he take to intervene in the matter, (b) in what way will the involved parties be held accountable and (c) on what date is it envisaged that consequence management will take place?
Reply:
I have shared the Report with the Council of the University, as required by the Higher Education Act No 101 of 1997 as amended; and requested the Council to respond to the findings and recommendations of the Report.
I will then consider the response of the Council; and decide on the appropriate action as provided for and guided by the Higher Education Act, considering the interests of the Central University Technology (CUT) as a public higher education institution.
The Council of the University is the employer, and by law, it determines the conditions of service, disciplinary provisions, privileges, and functions of the employees of the public higher education institution, subject to the applicable labour law. Thus, I cannot respond to how and when the employees will be held accountable.
Notwithstanding above, the Act provides various mechanisms through which the Minister can intervene following the Report of the Independent Assessor; and ensuring that the findings are addressed, and recommendations are implemented. However, that process will follow receipt and proper consideration of the Response of the Council.