Higher Education

2011-06-09

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QUESTION 3781

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 25/11/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 41 OF 2011)

Dr W G James (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. Whether the final recommendation of the ministerial committee, which was led by a certain person (name furnished) to review the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), was tabled by the end of August 2010; if not, why not; if so,

2. whether the report was published for consideration by stakeholders; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW4572E

REPLY:

1. The Executive Summary of the Report on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme review was presented and tabled to Cabinet on 24 February 2010. The final report on the recommendations was submitted to Cabinet on 14 October 2010.

2. The report was released for public comment on 16 March 2010 and 15 public submissions were received.

QUESTION 3778

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 25/11/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 41 OF 2011)

Dr J C Kloppers-Lourens (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether he has been informed that the chairperson of the Audit Committee of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) board has arranged for an independent review of the NSFAS management action plan in October 2010, which confirmed that the steps in the action plan which had been accepted by the NSFAS board would systematically deal with the Auditor-General's disclaimer for the 2009-10 financial year; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, why did the acting director not take this fact into account during his assessment of the state of affairs at the NSFAS? NW4569E

REPLY:

I was informed that the chairperson of the Audit & Risk Committee of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Board had arranged for an independent review of the NSFAS management action plan in October 2010.

The Audit Committee as a matter of routine, asked its external assurance providers to report on:

1. The broader NSFAS control environment, which included:

· Financial reporting and internal financial controls

· Business process and operational controls

· Regulatory and compliance requirements

· Risk management

· Fraud management

· Sustainability management

· Information Technology and governance thereof

· Governance processes within the organisation

2. To provide the Board with an assessment at a point in time (October 2010) of how well risks within the significant areas of the control environment were being managed.

The report indicated significant areas where the controls or processes were not adequate or operating effectively. A synopsis of key management action plans at that point was given "to address issues from an internal audit perspective". Of the five areas that were assessed out of the eight, the findings almost entirely pointed to "controls and/or processes within the area are not adequate and/or effective thereby exposing NSFAS to significant risks". While the report acknowledged management plans towards addressing the deficiencies, it cautioned that the monitoring was critical to "ensure the requisite improvement", given time constraints. A detailed assessment was conducted in December 2010 at the end of the third quarter, which found that there was significant lack of progress towards resolving the Auditor General's 2010 findings.

In the second part of this question, it is unclear what is meant by "acting director" and therefore an accurate response cannot be supplied.

QUESTION 3777

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 25/11/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 41 OF 2011)

Dr J C Kloppers-Lourens (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether the newly-appointed National Student Financial Aid Scheme board recently re-appointed a certain person (name furnished) who had been dismissed in June 2010 (details furnished); if so, (a) why, (b) how is this action reconciled with the requirement of good governance for a national entity managing public funds and (c) what are the further relevant details?

NW4568E

REPLY:

(a) The newly-appointed National Student Financial Aid Scheme board did not recently re-appoint Mr Xolani Gobela, who had been dismissed in June 2010.

Mr Gobela appealed successfully against his dismissal and was re-instated in his position. This action is in accordance with the requirement of good governance for a national entity managing public funds, as it complies with the Constitution and the Labour Relations Act.

QUESTION 3769

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 25/11/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 41 OF 2011)

Mr E J Marais (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether he intends to release the final Cabinet recommendations and implementation plan on the findings contained in the Report of the Ministerial Committee on the Review of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, 2010; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW4560E

REPLY:

The recommendations and implementation plan on the findings contained in the Report of the Ministerial Committee on the Review of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme are being gradually implemented by the NSFAS Board. Below are some of the key recommendations that have been implemented by the NSFAS Board in consultation with the DHET.

· Appointment of a turnaround task team to oversee immediate implementation of strategy and recovery plan in consultation with the DHET. The following are to be addressed as a matter of urgency:

a. The suitability of the current NSFAS Loan Management System and the IT environment with recommendations to address this as matter of urgency.

b. Operations around debt management, especially the impairment of outstanding student debt and compliance with GRAP standards.

c. The serious lack of appropriate skills especially in terms of finance and the IT environment.

· Address historical debt through:

a. An additional category of funding to assist final year students who qualify for NSFAS funding and who will be able to complete their studies. The loan agreement will stipulate the conversion of the final year loan amount to a 100 % bursary.

b. A review of all existing debt management policies and practices were undertaken to ensure alignment to the National Credit Act and other relevant legislation.

· Restructuring of the loan awards administration and processing of loan applications following the recommendations by the Review Committee.

· Close monitoring of unutilised funds to ensure that all funds allocated to higher education institutions are utilised.

· Restructuring of the NSFAS Board. Seven new Board members were appointed in June 2011.

· Implementation of a 0% interest on student loans until 12 months after a student has graduated or left university.

QUESTION 3770

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 25/11/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 41 OF 2011)

Mr E J Marais (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. Whether the acting director-general instructed the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to await the recommendations of Cabinet on the Report of the Ministerial Committee on the Review of the NSFAS before any recommendations are implemented; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, why was this instruction given;

2. whether this instruction has since been overturned; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW4561E

REPLY:

1. No, the then acting Director-General did not instruct the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to await the recommendations of Cabinet on the Report of the Ministerial Committee on the Review of the NSFAS before any recommendations were implemented. A final report with progress on key recommendations was tabled at Cabinet in October 2010 for discussion and noting and there was therefore no need to await further recommendations from Cabinet before proceeding to implement some of the recommendations. My Department in consultation with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme drafted an implementation schedule to take the work forward. A number of the review recommendations are being gradually implemented.

2. Given the response in 1 above, this question is not relevant.

QUESTION 3597

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 18/11/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 40 OF 2011)

Mr A M Mpontshane (IFP) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. Whether any officials in his department (a) have been investigated, (b) are currently under investigation and (c) have been charged for alleged (i) corrupt or (ii) fraudulent activity; if so, what are the relevant details;

2. whether any disciplinary action has been taken against employees of his department for (a) fraud and/or (b) corruption; if so, (i) how many instances of disciplinary actions have (aa) been finalised and (bb) not been finalised and (ii) in each case, (aa) what sanctions have been meted out and (bb) how long has it taken to finalise such disciplinary actions;

3. whether he has found that his department has adequate investigative capacity inclusive of manpower and infrastructure in respect of disciplinary proceedings; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW4374E

REPLY:

1. (a) Yes

(b) Yes, others have been investigated while others are still under investigation.

(ii) Yes, same as in (c) (i) above.

2. (a) Yes, disciplinary action was taken against one employee who was identified as the main perpetrator.

(b) Yes, disciplinary action was taken against one employee who was identified as the main perpetrator.

(i)(aa) One (1).

(i)(bb) Fifteen (15) have not been finalised.

(ii)(aa) In the one case that has been finalised the employee was found guilty and was dismissed.

(bb) It took 60 days in the one case that has been finalised.

3. The Department does not have adequate capacity to deal with disciplinary matters. In order to mitigate the current situation, the Department had solicited assistance from sister Departments within government. The Department has trained 11 officials on disciplinary proceedings including presiding and prosecuting; these officials will in future be used in dealing with disciplinary cases. Lastly the Department is looking at increasing its capacity through the ongoing organisational design process.

QUESTION 3531

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 11/11/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 38 OF 2011)

Mr A P van der Westhuizen (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. (a) What is the total amount of funding received by the European Union for the Recognition of Prior Learning project and (b) how many learners benefited from this project;

2. whether he has found that the project has been a success with regard to the number of persons who benefited versus the costs; if not, why was the project not successful; if so, (a) why has the funding provided by his department not been extended and (b) what are the further relevant details;

3. whether his department intends to replicate this project within the (a) construction industry or (b) alternative industries; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW4235E

REPLY:

1(a) The Financing Agreement for the project was signed in January 1999 between the Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA) and the European Commission (EC) and the project ended on 31 December 2003. The CETA resided under the authority of the Minister of Labour during this period. The total funding amount paid was 5,452,402.47 Euros.

(b) 655 Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) practitioners were trained. 10 558 people received formal recognition as a result of project activities.

2. The Final Evaluation report states as follows: "The RPL project is judged successful in that this evaluation has determined that it has satisfactorily met the EC's evaluation criteria of relevance, efficiency, effectiveness, impact and sustainability in the context of its stated aim".

(a) As stated in 1(a) the CETA reported to the Minister of Labour at the time and therefore the Minister of Higher Education and Training (HET) is not in a position to answer this part of the question.

(b) Currently, the Ministry is in the process of appointing a Ministerial Task Team on RPL. The Task Team will explore among others the CETA project as a case study and the relevant lessons to be learnt from it will be an important input.

3. As indicated in 2(b) the Ministerial Task Team on RPL will provide advice on RPL policy and implementation strategies to be considered.

QUESTION 3522

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 11/11/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 38 OF 2011)

Mr P D Dexter (Cope) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether he has received any reports of applicants to further education and training colleges who are allegedly compelled to pay bribes in order to secure admission; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW4223E

REPLY:

As the Minister of the Department of Higher Education and Training, I am not aware of any incidences whereby applicants to Further Education and Training (FET) colleges have been compelled to pay a bribe in order to secure admission into a college. Our colleges do not require an application fee from applicants and in instances where a learner has been accepted into a college and is also eligible for a DHET FET College Bursary, the registration fee for such a learner is waived.

QUESTION 3496

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 11/11/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 38 OF 2011)

Mr P D Dexter (Cope) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether he has found that the interventions at institutions facing challenges are distracting from his department's broader objectives; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW4170E

REPLY:

The interventions at institutions facing challenges are not distracting from my department's broader objectives. In fact it is part of the mandate of my department to oversee the system and to identify problems and intervene where necessary. We are in the process of amending the Higher Education Act in order to strengthen this oversight role.

The problems that have been identified over the past years are largely related to poor governance, management issues and human resource practices.

The University Branch in the department has a dedicated function that is responsible for providing management and technical financial support as well as building the capacity of the councils of higher education institutions. This function includes the appointment of task teams or Independent Assessors where allegations of serious maladministration have been identified as well as the appointment of Administrators if so recommended by the Independent Assessor and approved by myself.

My department is committed to strengthening institutions, specifically in areas that include the following:

· Strengthening governance, management and improving relationships between university councils, student bodies and unions to ensure stability;

· Putting in place sound financial management systems;

· Reforming procurement procedures; and

· Overhauling recruitment policies.

QUESTION 3466

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 11/11/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 38 OF 2011)

Mr A P van der Westhuizen (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. When was the Career Advice Services Project of the SA Qualifications Authority launched;

2. (a) how is the project financed and (b) what was the expenditure (i) in the 2010-11 financial year and (ii) during the period 1 April 2011 up to the latest specified date for which information is available;

3. whether any tracking and research have been conducted to evaluate the success of this project in terms of value derived by potential learners; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW4085E

Reply

1. The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) submitted a project funding proposal to the National Skill Fund (NSF) at the Department of Labour, in terms of the National Development Strategy two, in March 2009. The proposal was subsequently updated on 20 May 2010 and approved by the NSF at the Department of Higher Education and Training on 16 September 2010.

2. (a) The project is funded from a grant awarded by the NSF.

(b) (i) The total expenditure for 2010/11 was R6 897.197

(ii) The expenditure from 1 April 2011 to 31 October 2011 is R12 053.922.

These figures include both Operating Expenditure and Capital Expenditure.

3. According to statistics provided by the SABC, the thirty minute weekly radio discussion groups, sponsored by the project, in nine African language stations, over forty eight weeks, is reaching 2.3 million people in South Africa weekly. The project further reached about 30 000 people in the period of April to October 2011 through career exhibitions, to about 5 000 people through telephone, email, "Facebook" and walk-in services to clients in April to October 2011 and about 25 million people through the social network "MXit".

260 000 copies of 6 issues of inserts, in 10 official languages, were printed and placed in 16 community newspapers that are distributed for free in predominantly rural and poor communities in all nine provinces. 30 000 posters were printed and placed in community centres, schools, colleges and shopping centres in predominantly rural and poor communities. 5000 copies of career guidance booklet were printed and distributed at the Mandela Day Career Festival and at other career exhibitions.

I have stressed the importance of an intellectual project and the need for good research to SAQA. The Project Steering Committee has approved a number of research projects, some of, which are underway to examine the effectiveness of various aspects of the project and to review the existence and need for career guidance policy. In the third year of the project a summative evaluation will be undertaken.

The research and investigation agenda includes the following: a study to ascertain the most effective methods of communicating information about career information to all South Africans, especially those in poor and rural areas; A study to conceptualise the size and shape of the "poorest of the poor in deep rural" in South Africa; An impact study of the Post-Lusikisiki, Mandela Day Career Guidance Festival; An environmental scan and recommendations on policy and practice regarding careers advice services in South Africa; Analyses of information on the issues identified by Career Advice Services (CAS) from queries received, research into the promotion of CAS, to provide information to learners on the enrolment in NQF registered learning programmes; An investigation to establish specifications for a nation career advice portal for South Africa and the monitoring of CAS radio programmes to determine the effectiveness of the radio campaign with the targeted communities.

QUESTION 3433

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 04/11/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 36 OF 2011)

Mrs S V Kalyan (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. (a) How many copies of each annual report that was produced by (i) his department and (ii) the entities reporting to him were commissioned for print in the 2010-11 financial year, (b) how many copies were actually printed and (c) what were the (i) total and (ii) individual costs of printing these reports;

2. (a) who printed each specified report, (b) how was the specified printer decided upon and (c) on what date did the specified printer deliver the report to the specified entity;

3. whether any of the specified reports that had been printed were found to be unsatisfactory; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, in each case, (a) which reports, (b) for which entity, (c) by which printer, (d) what action was taken and (e) what were the costs?

NW4119E

REPLY:

1. See attached

2. See attached

3) The Department and the majority of the entities, except for the following entities, were satisfied with the printing of their Annual Reports and did not require any reprinting of documents: NSFAS, PSETA and W&RSETA.

(a) The Annual Report

(b), (c), (d) & (e)

(b) for which entity	(c) by which printer	(d) what action was taken	(e) what were the costs
NSFAS	Draftfcb Social Marketing	One page replaced	No Costs
PSETA	Shereno Printers cc	Printed small stickers for pasting on the front page to correct the error	R2 245.00
W&RSETA	Kashan Advertising	An Erratum Insert printed for corrections.	R12 763.00

QUESTION 3396

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 04/11/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 36 OF 2011)

Mr A P van der Westhuizen (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. Whether the chairperson of the board for the Food and Beverage Manufacturing Industry sector education and training authority has introduced an anonymous suggestion box at the institution; if so, what are the relevant details;

2. whether any suggestions that required the attention of (a) the board and (b) management have been received; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so,

3. whether these items were placed on the agenda of any board meeting or passed on to management; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

4. whether a survey has been conducted to establish whether the introduction of such a suggestion box constitutes an example of good governance practice; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

5. whether such practices will be replicated at other such entities; if not, why not; if so, which entities?

NW4076E

REPLY:

1. An anonymous suggestion box was suggested by the Chairperson as a means of communication between staff and the Accounting Authority in order for the staff to submit any suggestion and/or complaints. The staff welcomed the idea and is in support thereof.

2. Suggestions and complaints were received which needed the Accounting Authority's attention. The Chairperson assured staff members and management through an open letter that the complaints and suggestions would receive the necessary attention.

a) Specific suggestions and complaints were referred to the appropriate sub-committees of the Accounting Authority and will be addressed accordingly

b) Some matters are in the process of being resolved.

3. Certain serious allegations against management were handed to external investigators for the necessary investigation and recommendation to the Accounting Authority.

4. No survey was conducted since the suggestion to communicate with the Foodbev staff through an anonymous suggestion box was to be tested in order to determine if it will improve communication and governance.

5. The suggestion box can be replicated in other Setas if the Accounting Authorities of those entities feel they are necessary and would yield value for them. The Department cannot prescribe what they should do.

QUESTION 3395

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 04/11/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 36 OF 2011)

Mr A P van der Westhuizen (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. Whether a forensic investigation has been conducted or is currently being conducted at the Food and Beverage Manufacturing Industry sector education and training authority; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) who (i) authorised this investigation and (ii) set the parameters or mandate of the service provider that was appointed to conduct the investigation and (b) what is the total cost of this investigation;

2. whether the appointment of the service provider was conducted within the applicable policy or regulations; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

3. whether any written reports pertaining to the specified investigation have been received; if not, why not; if so, what is his intended plan of action to remedy the situation;

4. whether any wrongdoing that require disciplinary actions or remedial steps have been identified; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW4075E

REPLY:

1. A forensic investigation is currently being conducted at the Foodbev SETA.

a) (i) The Accounting Authority authorized and approved a forensic investigation

(ii) The terms of reference for the service provider were determined and approved by the Accounting Authority

b) The total cost of the forensic investigation will be less than R500, 000.00.

2. The appointment of the service provider is done in accordance with relevant policies, procedures of the Foodbev SETA and Treasury Regulations.

3. A preliminary report was presented to the Accounting Authority which indicates that there is prima facie evidence of wrong doing. Based on the recommendations in the final report, the Accounting Authority will finalize a plan of action to remedy the situation. The final report and plan of action will be made available to the Executive Authority once the forensic investigation is concluded.

4. The preliminary report indicates that there are wrong doings and as indicated, appropriate action will be taken once the final report has been considered and accepted by the Accounting Authority.

QUESTION 3352

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 28/10/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 35 OF 2011)

Mr P D Dexter (Cope) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. How many 18 to 24-year old students (a) were enrolled in universities in the fields of (i) Science, (ii) Engineering, (iii) Technology, (iv) Business Management and (v) Education (aa) in (aaa) 2008, (bbb) 2009 and (ccc) 2010 and (bb) at the specified date of registration in 2011 and (b) dropped out in each specified year;

2. What reasons were given for these students dropping out?

NW4013E

REPLY:

1. Students enrolled in universities in the fields of Science, Engineering and Technology programmes increased from 224 949 in 2008 to 246 849 in 2010. (i) Science programme enrolments with a focus on Life and Physical Sciences in the undergraduate programmes increased from 22 778 in 2008 to 29 445 in 2010. (ii) The specific growth within professional engineering fields relates to an increase from 11 554 in 2007 to 14 840 in 2010, (iii) engineering technologists increased from 6 330 in 2007 to 8 376 in 2010 and the enrolments for engineering technician programmes increased from 34 321 in 2007 to 38 629 in 2010. (iv) Enrolments in Business Management programmes increased from 234 588 in 2008 to 275 924 in 2010. (v) Education enrolments across all programmes including initial and continuing teacher education qualifications increased from 124 689 in 2008 to 144 822 in 2010.

The Department is in the process of collating the data for 2011 registrations as the institutions are specified to submit the first HEMIS data submission by October 2011. The first HEMIS data set is usually not a true reflection and is seen as preliminary data and is not audited. The 2011 true figures will be available in October 2012.

2. The CHE has been tasked to determine the number of drop outs in each specified year through dedicated cohort studies. However, various research projects indicate that the major reason for students dropping out can be attributed to financial reasons, and to a lesser extent to academic performance and social factors. Most students drop out due to being excluded as a result of lack of financial support,

QUESTION 3351

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 28/10/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 35 OF 2011)

Mr P D Dexter (Cope) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. Whether he has been informed of the National Skills Fund's under-utilisation of funds (details furnished); if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details;

2. whether he has taken any action to remedy the situation; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details;

3. whether he will make a statement on the matter?

NW4012E

REPLY:

1. Honourable Dexter, the financial statements of the National Skills Fund (NSF) are part of the Department's Annual Report for 2011/12 and therefore I can confirm that I am aware of the surplus money in the Fund.

You should however also take note that I only became responsible for the NSF from the 2010/11 financial year, effectively from 01 April 2010. Yes, I inherited a Fund with large reserves which the Department will be using to achieve the objectives of the new National Skills Development Strategy 2011 – 2016 as well as a differentiated, yet integrated post school education and training system. This also implies that the surplus funds will not be spent over-night, but rather over the duration of the strategy period.

2. I can confirm that there is a plan in place to ensure that the available surplus money will in the future be spent at a much improved rate. I have approved the funding framework, which will guide the funding priorities of the NSF as directed in the NSDS III. To that end, the NSF is finalising the necessary guiding templates, procedures and regulations for smooth implementation of the approved funding framework.

As already indicated above, the funds will be used to achieve the objectives of the new National Skills Development Strategy 2011 – 2016, as well as an integrated post school education and training system and contribute to the New Growth Path and National Skills Accord. The need for funds is huge and in my humble opinion I do not think these surplus funds will be sufficient to cover all the needs, but they will go a long way to make a noticeable difference.

Examples of funding allocations already awarded recently by the Fund for the training and to benefit unemployed people as well as the youth are as follows:

· R190,5 million was allocated to the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform for their National Rural Youth Service Corps (NARYSEC) Programme;

· R200 million was allocated to the National Department of Public Works for the Expanded Public Work Programme (EPWP) specifically earmarked for the training of unemployed people;

· R99m was made available to SAQA for the establishment of a National comprehensive career development helpline and information service to school leavers. Part of this project is already in operation. Students and unemployed youth are already receiving relevant career information;

· Over R500m was made available for artisan development in line with the NGP objectives to increase the pool of artisans in the country; and

· In 2011, the NSF originally made an amount of R150 million available to the National Students Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for under graduate studies in scarce and critical skills areas. A further R93 million was made available during this year due to a shortfall of bursary funding. Therefore in total an amount of R243 million was made available for bursaries in 2011.

NSFAS is currently assessing the need for bursary funding and will approach the National Skills Fund for additional funds based on the number of students who apply for bursaries and the shortfall they are expecting.

3. I have made numerous statements on the broader challenge of under-spending in the entire skills system and the challenges that led to that under-spending. I have further made statements with regard to the changes I'm making in the entire skills system, changes that are aimed at addressing the quality of service the nation must receive from the system and the issue of under-spending.

QUESTION 3275

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 28/10/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 35 OF 2011)

Mr L W Greyling (ID) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

What amount in orders has been placed, with each specified travel agency that has been contracted by his office, (a) in the 2010-11 financial year and (b) during the period 1 April 2011 up to the latest specified date for which information is available?

NW3744E

REPLY:

a) The entire amount of the orders placed to Rennies Travel Agency by the Department in 2010/11 financial year was R19, 440,386.56.

b) The entire amount of the orders placed to Rennies Travel Agency by the Department in 2011/2012 financial year to date was R19, 728,995.90

QUESTION 3266

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 21/10/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 33 OF 2011)

Mr P D Dexter (Cope) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether, with reference to his reply to question 2166 on 2 September 2011, the final report of the task team on the University of Limpopo merger review is available to the public; if not, why not; if so, where may a copy be obtained?

NW3883E

REPLY:

The Report of the Task Team into the impact of the merger between Medunsa and the University of the North to form the University of Limpopo was gazetted on 8 July 2011 (Government Gazette No. 34443) and is available to the public. I attach the electronic copy of the gazette for your perusal/convenience. The notice is also accessible at www.info.gov.za (Click on documents, then notices, year of publication and month).

QUESTION 3222

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 21/10/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 33 OF 2011)

Dr J C Kloppers-Lourens (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

With reference to his reply to question 2794 on 30 September 2011, what (a) were the reasons for the (i) suspension and (ii) eventual termination of the employment contract of a certain person (name furnished) and (b) steps has the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) taken to employ a chief executive officer since the position has been vacant for half a year?

NW3834E

REPLY:

In my reply to Question 2794 I made no reference to (i) suspension and (ii) eventual termination of the employment contract of Mr Ashley Seymour. As indicated, I do not have the power to either appoint or dismiss the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).

As the matter is before the courts of law (sub judice) I can only provide a comprehensive response after the matter has been finalised by the courts.

In relation to the appointment of a new CEO, the recruitment and selection processes are currently underway and are anticipated to be finalized before the end of October 2011 and thereafter the NSFAS board will make an announcement to all stakeholders.

QUESTION 3204

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 21/10/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 33 OF 2011)

Mr A P van der Westhuizen (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. Whether the councils of public further education and training (FET) colleges are paying the shortfall in the salaries of staff members who are still being paid through the Persal system; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) how many staff members are being paid in this manner and (b) what amount is being paid to each specified staff member;

2. in what way will the specified staff members be affected in terms of the Government Employees' Pension Fund when they retire?

NW3815E

REPLY:

1. Yes, some councils of public Further Education and Training Colleges pay a top-up salary (what can be interpreted as a shortfall) to some employees paid via PERSAL.

(a) 98 staff members are being paid in this manner.

(b) The amounts vary depending on the reason for the top-up. The details of the exact amounts paid to each specified staff member are confidential and can be made available to the Member upon request and consent of the respective employee/employees

2. There won't be any effect on the specified staff members' Government Employees' Pension Fund when they retire.

QUESTION 3203

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 21/10/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 33 OF 2011)

Mr A P van der Westhuizen (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

How many learners (a) have been registered in new learnership agreements in qualification of levels (i) 2, (ii) 3 and (iii) 4 for each of the sectoral education and training authorities for the (aa) 2008-09, (bb) 2009-10 and (cc) 2010-11 financial years, (b)(i) in learnership agreements were registered as having been successful and (ii) not in learnership agreements were registered as having been successful?

NW3814E

REPLY:

(a) and (b) The SETAs have confirmed the number of learners registered in learnership agreements and those that have been successful in the 2008-09, 2009-10 and 2010-11 financial years. The table attached reflects the total number of learners registered and completed in learnerships as per SETA:

QUESTION 3134

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 14/10/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 31 OF 2011)

Mr P D Dexter (Cope) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether, with reference to his reply to question 2166 on 2 September 2011, the Council on Higher Education has been given time lines in terms of which they should provide advice on the recommendations; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW3658E

REPLY:

The Council on Higher Education (CHE) had committed to submitting their advice on the unbundling of Medunsa from the University of Limpopo at the end of August 2011. As agreed, I received the CHE advice at the beginning of September 2011. I am in the process of studying the advice and will make pronouncements on the way-forward soon.

QUESTION 3063

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 14/10/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 31 OF 2011)

Mrs H Lamoela (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. Whether (a) he, (b) the Deputy Minister and (c) any senior officials of his department intend to visit or have visited New Zealand during the 2011 Rugby World Cup Tournament; if so, what is the (i)(aa) name, (bb) rank and (cc) position or designation of each specified person accompanying (aaa) him, (bbb) the Deputy Minister and (ccc) each specified senior official and (ii)(aa) nature and (bb) official reason for the visit;

2. what (a) total amount will be spent or has been spent on the trip and (b) is the (i) description and (ii) detailed breakdown of the amounts that will be spent or have been spent on (aa) accommodation, (bb) travel and (cc) subsistence costs?

NW3585E

REPLY:

1. The Minister, Deputy Minister and other senior officials of the Department of Higher Education and Training did not intend to visit nor have visited New Zealand during the 2011 Rugby World Cup; therefore all other questions are not applicable.

2. Not applicable

QUESTION 3020

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 14/10/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 31 OF 2011)

Mr T D Lee (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. Whether (a) his department and (b) any entity reporting to him was approached by a certain political organisation (name furnished) to contribute to its 66th birthday celebrations; if so, in each case, (i) which entities and (ii) what was the (aa) nature and (bb) value of the contribution that was requested;

2. whether (a) his department and (b) any of the specified entities reporting to him agreed to the request; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, in each case, (i) who approved the request, (ii) what was the justification for the agreement to the request and (iii) from which budget will the contribution be paid;

3. whether (a) his department and (b) any of the specified entities reporting to him made financial contributions to the said political organisation without being approached for such financial contributions; if so, in each case, (i) what amount will be contributed, (ii) from which budget, (iii) who made the decision to provide the specified funds to the said political organisation and (iv) how is this (aa) decision and (bb) amount justified;

4. whether (a) his department and (b) any of the entities reporting to him rely on any (i) statutory and (ii) policy provisions in (aa) agreeing and (bb) making such contribution; if not, in each case, what is the position in this regard; if so, in each case, what are the relevant details?

NW3504E

REPLY:

1) Neither the department nor any entity reporting to me was approached by the African National Congress Youth League to contribute to its centenary celebrations.

2) Falls away

3) Falls away

4) Falls away

QUESTION 2960

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 23/09/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 30 OF 2011)

Mr P D Dexter (Cope) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether he received a turnaround strategy from the board of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS); if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW3435E

REPLY:

I have received the turnaround strategy from the new NSFAS Board. The turnaround strategy is based on the 2010 NSFAS review which identified serious shortcomings including the use of unconstitutional provisions such as Section 23 of the NSFAS Act which placed an obligation on the employer of a borrower to make deductions from the latter's remuneration without the borrower's consent or court intervention. As a result of concerns in this regard, NSFAS does not currently make new repayment arrangements using Section 23 in recovering debts from any borrower employed in either the private or public sector who has not consented to their employer making a deduction. Further details regarding the need for a turnaround strategy are clearly explained in the 2010 NSFAS review. Copies of the Review will be provided on request by my Department.

QUESTION 2959

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 23/09/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 30 OF 2011)

Mr P D Dexter (Cope) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. Whether he has received a detailed report by the board of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme in March 2011, if not, what is the position in this regard; if so,

2. whether he will make the findings public; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW3434E

REPLY:

The new NSFAS turnaround strategy mandates the Board to report regularly to me. The Board has submitted a progress report dated 30 April 2011 which provides a comprehensive account of the challenges faced by the organisation and how they are being addressed. The details of the report are largely around the day to day operational issues facing NSFAS, including amongst others, the process around filling vacancies, Information Technology, debt recovery, and cash management policies. The NSFAS annual report has been tabled in Parliament. The annual report is very comprehensive and will provide stakeholders and members of the public with a detailed account of NSFAS key activities.

QUESTION 2795

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 16/09/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 29 OF 2011)

Mr P D Dexter (Cope) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether he has removed all the board members of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS); if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW3259E

REPLY:

I have not removed any Board members of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). The 2010 NSFAS Ministerial Review Committee recommended that the Board be restructured to ensure that it is able to perform its duties in terms of the NSFAS Act. The Board's mandate is to put in place measures that will enable NSFAS to become a model public entity that complies fully with the provisions of its governing legislation, including the NSFAS Act, the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and the National Credit Act.Some Board members resigned and their resignations were duly accepted.

The NSFAS Board has the fiduciary responsibility for substantial amounts of money and the 2010 NSFAS review recommended that I consider nominees with strong financial, actuarial and legal skills to ensure good corporate governance and operational efficiency. Based on this recommendation, I invited the public to nominate members who could be considered to serve as part of the NSFAS Board through a notice in the Government Gazette No. 33951 of 21 January 2011. An advert was also placed in one national newspaper circulating in every province of the Republic, in terms of section 5 (3) of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme Act (Act 56 of 1999).

I considered the nominations and appointed the following seven people, Ms Sibongile Masinga; Ms Kelebogile Mohajane; Professor Rob Dorrington; Professor Themba Mosia; Mr Zozo Siyengo; Ms Ntombizodwa Ndlovu; and Mr Dumisani Mathonsi. In addition, Mr Shai Makgoba, Chief Director: Financial Planning and Information System in my Department, has been appointed as a departmental representative on the NSFAS Board. Therefore, all Board positions have been filled in terms of the NSFAS Act.

QUESTION 2794

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 16/09/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 29 OF 2011)

Mr P D Dexter (Cope) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether he has dismissed the chief executive officer of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS); if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW3258E

REPLY:

I have not dismissed the Chief Executive Office of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). In terms of the NSFAS Act (Act 56 of 1999), I do not have the power to either appoint or to dismiss the CEO of NSFAS. This responsibility/function rests with the Board of NSFAS. The position is that the Board of NSFAS did not confirm the appointment of the former CEO following the probation period of his employment. The Board dealt with the matter procedurally and legally as it went to great length to ensure full compliance with the Labour Relations Act. However, the former CEO has challenged the non confirmation of his appointment and has indicated his intention in the media to legally challenge this.

QUESTION 2676

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 16/09/2011 (Inter-departmental transfer with effect from 23 September 2011)

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 30 OF 2011)

Dr J C Kloppers-Lourens (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether his department intends developing a policy regarding the verification of qualifications and vetting of work experience of applicants who apply for positions at (a) higher education institutions and (b) his department; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW3134E

REPLY:

(a) Universities have institutional autonomy and therefore regulate their own Human Resource processes and procedures through their Council approved human resource policies. An institution has to provide evidence, as stated in their annual report submitted to my Department, of procedures and approaches followed for the verification of qualifications and vetting of work experience of applicants who apply for positions as advertised according to the procedures stipulated in their Application and Selection Policy. Institutions have various approaches but this will be documented in their institutional policies. The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) verifies all qualifications including foreign qualifications. At Higher Education institutions, the National Learners' Records Database (NLRD) is used to verify qualifications of students. Private companies such as Kroll are also utilised at an extra cost.

(b) My Department, like any other government department, is subject to the policies that are determined by DPSA in respect to recruitment and requirements for appointments. In terms of the Public Service Regulations Part VII section B.1 (f) on conditions for appointment, the executing authority shall require an employee to be subjected to security clearance only where the duties attached to the post are such as to make security clearance necessary; and in terms of section D.8 (a) the executing authority shall satisfy himself or herself that the candidate qualifies in all respects for the post and that his or her claims in her or his application for the post have been verified, this includes all claims in support of the application. SAQA has been mandated by Cabinet as the only organisation/entity to verify qualifications of all public service employees.

QUESTION 2677

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 16/09/2011 (Inter-departmental transfer with effect from 23 September 2011)

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 30 OF 2011)

Dr J C Kloppers-Lourens (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether his department have a strategy in place to deal with the consequences of ageing within the academic and research cohort of our universities; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW3135E

REPLY:

There are a number of programmes aimed at improving and strengthening emphasis on post graduate studies, research and addressing the engendering of a new generation of academics. Most of the work being conducted in this area is linked to the work of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the National Research Foundation (NRF). A dedicated strategy and funding towards the development of emerging researchers has been put into place by the DST. My Department does provide funding for research development in areas such as improving staff qualifications and research equipment whilst the DST is responsible for programmes such as the emerging researchers and post graduate studies infrastructure development.

Insufficient post graduate funding is one of the challenges that discourages our students from pursuing post graduate studies. The Department has allocated R50 million for postgraduate students who require financial assistance to complete their honours, masters and doctoral degrees. These students will enter into loan agreements with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and the money they pay back will be earmarked to fund
future postgraduate students.

QUESTION 2614

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 09/09/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 28 OF 2011)

Dr J C Kloppers-Lourens (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

(1) Whether the Technikon North West received a R6 million transfer from his department subsequent to the merging of three higher education institutions which resulted in the establishment of the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT); if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) on what date was this money transferred, (b) what are the reasons for this amount being transferred and (c) considering the merger, what is the breakdown of how this money was spent;

(2) Whether this amount is a loan and repayable by the Technikon North West; if not, why not; if so, who is his department holding accountable to repay this amount following the merger?

NW3030E

REPLY:

(1) During the mergers of different institutions the then Department of Education transferred approximately R3 billion over the period 2003/04 to 2008/09 to the newly established institutions for recapitalization, direct merger costs and infrastructure projects (for mergers). The question raised by the Honourable member is not clear as no transfer would be made to an institution such as the Technikon North West (pre-merged institution) subsequent to a merger, it's only the newly established institution in this case the Tshwane University of Technology that would receive transfers related to the mergers. Transfers were made to Tshwane University of Technology from April 2004 (2004/05 financial Year). The department had a merger unit (which was closed in March 2010), that managed and monitored the allocation and use of these funds. Individual universities had to account for the transfers made by submitting audited reports and copies of invoices. There were no loans granted by the department to universities for the mergers. Tshwane University of Technology received R324 million in total (recapitalisation R87 million, direct merger costs R87 million and merger infrastructure R150 million) for the merger of the Technikon Pretoria, Technikon North West and Technikon Northern Gauteng.

(2) Records indicate that the Technikon North West received last transfer from the department on 3 November 2003 amounting to R6,347 million which was their monthly block grant subsidy that all institutions received. This was the same amount transferred to the Technikon for the months of June to October 2003 prior to the merger.

QUESTION 2613

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 09/09/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 28 OF 2011)

Dr J C Kloppers-Lourens (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

(1) Whether he received the report of a certain company (name furnished) that has been appointed by the audit committee of the council of the Central University of Technology (CUT) in Bloemfontein to conduct a forensic investigation into various allegations; if not, why not; if so, what are the main (a) findings and (b) recommendations of this report;

(2) Whether he intends to instruct the university to make the report available to the members of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee for Higher Education and Training; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(3) Whether he intends to instruct the university to publish this report; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(4) Whether he intends to (a) intervene and (b) appoint an independent investigator to investigate the matters of concern at this university; if not, why not, in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?

NW3029E

REPLY:

No, I have not yet received the KPMG report although I had requested to be furnished with a copy. It has now come to light that due to the delay or failure by KPMG in finalising the investigation, their services have been terminated by the University. The University has now appointed Advocate Jannie Lubbe to finalise the investigation. Therefore there is no KPMG report at this stage.

QUESTION 2612

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 09/09/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 28 OF 2011)

Dr J C Kloppers-Lourens (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether he has been informed of a letter that was addressed and sent to him earlier in 2011 by a group of concerned staff members of the Central University of Technology in Bloemfontein in which they allege incidents of gross violations of labour laws and human rights including misappropriation of funds, weak leadership and an autocratic leadership style displayed by the vice chancellor; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what was his response to this letter?

NW3028E

REPLY:

Yes, I have received the anonymous letter in which allegations of gross violations of labour laws and human rights including misappropriation of funds, weak leadership and an autocratic leadership style displayed by the Vice-Chancellor. I referred the matter to Council of the University, which is the employer, for a response. Subsequent to this, Council appointed KPMG to test these allegations. KPMG investigation was not concluded as their services were terminated due to their alleged failure to conclude the investigations and to submit their report within the agreed time-frame. The investigation is now being conducted by Adv. Jannie Lubbe and Council will report to me as soon as the investigation has been concluded and a report submitted.

QUESTION 2514

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 02/09/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 27 OF 2011)

Mr J R B Lorimer (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether (a) his department and (b) entities reporting to it have (i) awarded any tenders and (ii) concluded any (aa) contracts and (bb) financial transactions with certain companies (names and details furnished) in each specified financial year since 2005-06; if so, (aaa) which company or entity, (bbb) what are the relevant details, (ccc) what was the value of each (aaaa) tender, (bbbb) contract or (cccc) financial transaction and (ddd) what was the name of the companies who failed for each tender, contract or financial transaction that was awarded?

NW2933E

REPLY:

a) The department did not exist in 2005/6, 2006/7, 2007/8 and 2008/9.

b) The following entities did not award or conclude any contracts of financial transaction with the companies furnished in the parliamentary question:

· Agriculture Sector Education and Training Authority (AGRISETA)

· Banking Education and Training Authority (BANKSETA)

· Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA)

· Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA)

· Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP-SETA)

· Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA)

· Fibre Processing and Manufacturing Sector Education and Training Authority (FP&M SETA)

· Financial and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET)

· Food and Beverages Sector Education and Training Authority (FOODBEV-SETA)

· Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA)

· Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority (INSETA)

· Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA)

· Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Education and Training Authority (MERSETA)

· Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT-SETA)

· Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA)

· National Skills Fund (NSF)

· National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)

· Public Service Education and Training Authority (PSETA)

· Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO)

· Safety and Security Services Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA)

· Services Sector Education and Training Authority (SERVICES-SETA)

· Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hospitality and Sports Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA)

· Transport Education and Training Authority (TETA)

· Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA)

· South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)

· Council on Higher Education (CHE)

aa) to ddd) The department or its entities did not receive proposals and does not have contracts with the following companies as furnished: Bobwill Projects, Casino Retail, Chamaber Management Services, Hyperception Properties 213, Justo Investments, Lezmin 2554, Morekong Printing and Promotions, Que 101RHS Properties, Sonex, and Ivothondaba Poperties.

QUESTION 2491

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 02/09/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 27 OF 2011)

Mr A P van der Westhuizen (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. What are the comparative figures for the Report 191 subjects in terms of number of (a) examination enrolments, (b) papers written, and (c) learners who had passed in the (i) 2006, (ii) 2007, (iii) 2008, (iv) 2009 and (v) 2010 academic years;

NW2905E

REPLY:

1. Report 191 in terms of number of (a) examination enrolments, and (c) learners who had passed in the (i) 2006, (ii) 2007, (iii) 2008, (iv) 2009 and (v) 2010 academic years; see attached

1. Report 191 in terms of number of (b) papers written in the (i) 2006, (ii) 2007, (iii) 2008, (iv) 2009 and (v) 2010 academic years-

QUESTION PAPERS

ENGINEERING STUDIES

YEAR	APRIL	JUNE	AUGUST	NOVEMBER	TOTAL
(b) (i) 2006	230	4	256	267	757
(b) (ii) 2007	236	4	249	257	746
(b) (iii) 2008	236	4	245	257	742
(b) (iv) 2009	179	4	201	203	587
(b) (v) 2010	188	4	141	148	481

BUSINESS STUDIES

YEAR	FEBRUARY	JUNE	NOVEMBER	TOTAL
(b) (i) 2006	45	211	262	518
(b) (ii) 2007	45	211	262	518
(b) (iii) 2008	32	213	260	505
(b) (iv) 2009	29	199	253	481
(b) (v) 2010	29	225	188	442

National Diplomas issued for Engineering and Business Studies

YEAR	NUMBER ISSUE9D
(a) 2006	3099
(b) 2007	3029
(c) 2008	3942
(d) 2009	5038
(e) 2010	Receiving attention – stats not yet available

QUESTION 2470

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 02/09/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 27 OF 2011)

Dr J C Kloppers-Lourens (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. Whether, with reference to the recent appointment of a certain person (name furnished) as Administrator to the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) for a period of two years, he will continue to draw his salary of R2.2 million per year for the duration of his term; if not, why not; if so, why;

2. whether he has been informed that a number of senior executive positions have been set aside by the Administrator without advertising them; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so,

3. whether all candidates are required to meet the minimum required qualifications; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details;

4. whether the recent appointment of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) who is not a qualified chartered accountant, a requirement previous CFOs had to meet, indicates that the requirement will be rescinded; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW2881E

REPLY:

1. I have appointed Professor Themba Mosia for a contract period of 6 (six) months commencing on 15 August 2011 until 16 February 2012 (as an administrator), subject to review after the six months. Professor Mosia is appointed on secondment from the North West University (NWU) for a period not exceeding two years. It was agreed that during the period of Professor Mosia's secondment to Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), NWU shall continue to pay his monthly salary and other monies due (including all payment due by NWU in respect of pension fund, medical aid and insurance schemes or otherwise). This amounts to R783 230, 45 for a period of 6 months. The department will pay Professor Mosia a monthly honorarium (R30 000 taxable which amounts to R180 000. The total amount that the DHET will transfer to NWU is R963 230, 45 (salary and honorarium for a six month period).

2. The general and specific term of reference of Professor Mosia's appointment as Administrator includes "to initiate and conclude the key recommendations of the Independent Assessor report including the appointment of senior staff by ensuring that appointments made into senior managers posts and in particular the appointment of the Vice-Chancellor is in accordance with the requirements published in the advertisement of the post and to manage the non compliance to requirements within the prescripts of the law". This is one of the key issues that the Administrator would address during his term.

3. See No. 2 above

4. The Administrator rescinded the appointment of the Acting Chief Financial Officer (CFO) when he assumed office. The previous CFO was requested to return and resumed duty on 1 September 2011. A new CFO will be appointed in accordance with the skills and requirements of the post within the next six months. A proper handover report will be done.

QUESTION 2466

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 02/09/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 27 OF 2011)

Dr J C Kloppers-Lourens (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether, with reference to the appointment of a certain vice-chancellor (name furnished) to a certain university (name furnished), he intends taking any action against the appointment of the said person; if not, why not; if so, what (a) is the status of the investigation into his misconduct and (b) action will be taken upon his return from the two-week compulsory leave?

NW2876E

REPLY:

(a) I have appointed Prof T Mosia as Administrator for the Tshwane University of Technology. During his term as Administrator, Prof Mosia is expected to take over the authority of the Council and the function of the Vice-Chancellor. Prof Mosia will also ensure that all appointments made into senior managements posts and in particular the appointment of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Molefe is in accordance with the requirements of the advertised post of Vice-Chancellor. He is expected to manage the non compliance to requirements within the prescripts of the law.

It is the duty of the Administrator to ensure that an appropriate and properly qualified candidate is appointed to the post of the Vice-Chancellor. Prof Molefe was requested to provide proof by not later than 14 October 2011 that his foreign qualification has been properly evaluated and accredited by a statutory body assigned to perform this function in terms of the laws of South Africa.

(b) Serious allegations of the involvement of Prof Molefe in the procurement of a service to bug individuals' telephone lines and emails came to light. The Administrator has taken a decision to investigate the non compliance to procurement policies as this conduct could open the university to lawsuits from the affected individuals. The Administrator is of the view that Prof Molefe's presence at the university will prejudice the investigation and is considering granting Prof Molefe special leave of absence.

Prof Molefe's current leave was extended by the Administrator and he was requested to provide reasons within ten days why he should not be granted special leave.

QUESTION 2465

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 02/09/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 27 OF 2011)

Dr J C Kloppers-Lourens (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1. Whether he has been informed that the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) intends to establish a university city in Garankuwa with an estimated budget of R3 billion; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details of the project;

2. Whether he has endorsed this project; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW2874E

REPLY:

1. I have not received any submission from the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) relating to the establishment of a university city in Ga-Rankuwa with an estimated budget of R3 billion. In terms Sections 20(5) and 40(3) of the Higher Education Act, 1997 universities require the Minister's approval in cases where there are leasing transactions or construction projects, respectively, exceeding 5% of the universities' average income for the preceding two years. TUT has not submitted any formal request in this regard.

2. A project for the development of a university city in Ga-Rankuwa has not been endorsed. However, as part of the DHET's R3 billion infrastructure grant for all universities over the period 2006/07 to 2009/10, 328 million was allocated to TUT of which R48 million was earmarked for the Ga-Rankuwa Campus for the Economic and Finance Faculty for upgrading and refurbishing lecture halls, security and landscaping, upgrading residences and upgrading support buildings and facilities. During the 2010/11 and 2011/12 round of infrastructure funding amounting to R3,2 billion, TUT received R272 million mainly for infrastructure projects on the main campus in Pretoria and its eMalahleni campus. Any university may develop master plans for their universities/ campuses; however these need to be aligned to the delivery of teaching and learning programmes in the university. The only information that officials in the Department of Higher Education and Training have seen is a presentation document on 'The Vision for Garankuwa Campus Faculty of Economics and Finance Towards 2030 and beyond' which was estimated to cost R2 billion over time. Preliminary indications were that R309 million would be invested by the private sector and R248 million from TUT funding.

QUESTION 2431

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 02/09/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 27 OF 2011)

Mr A C Steyn (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

What amount was (a) claimed by and (b) paid to (i) him and (ii) his deputy minister for subsistence and travel in each month in the 2010-11 financial year?

NW2829E

REPLY:

The Minister and Deputy Minister are entitled to reimbursement for the costs of travel subsistence for official purposes be it for a domestic or international visit. Where official residences (private or State-owned) are kept in both Cape Town and Pretoria, no subsistence allowance is payable for official journeys between Cape Town and Pretoria but a claim on distance travelled for use of private motor vehicle is payable. For international trips, the department may make an advance payment prior to a trip being undertaken in which case supporting vouchers are submitted afterwards.

Details of subsistence and travel claims for both the Minister and Deputy Minister from 1 April 2010 to 31 March 2011 are as follows:

Period	(i) Minister		(ii) Deputy Minister
Period	Claimed	Paid	Claimed	Paid
May	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00
July	15 122.80	15 122.80	0.00	0.00
August	4 804.55	4 804.55	0.00	0.00
October	23 460.90	23 460.90	0.00	0.00
November	7 491.00	7 491.00	0.00	0.00
December	0.00	0.00	25 000.00	25 000.00
January	7 023.00	7 023.00	3 498.00	3 498.00
February	20 000.00	20 000.00	6 110.00	6 110.00
March	28 003.77	28 003.77	7 388.00	7 388.00
TOTAL	105 906.02	105 906.02	41 996.00	41 996.00

QUESTION 2400

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 02/09/2011 (Inter-departmental transfer with effect from 09 September 2011)

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 27 OF 2011)

Mr N Singh (IFP) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether his department intends providing (a) financial and (b) other incentives to private colleges to encourage the roll-out of classes to support (i) skills development in (aa) Adult Basic Education and Training and (bb) computer skills courses and (ii) the development and teaching of early childhood development practitioners; if not, why not, in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?

NW2791E

REPLY

(a) and (b)

The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) does not intend to provide financial assistance or other incentives to private colleges. Section 29 (3) Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 allows for any person who seeks to establish and maintain an independent educational institution to do so at their own expense and in compliance with the conditions stipulated in Sub-section 29(3)(a)(b) and (c) of the Constitution. This provision is further enshrined in the Further Education and Training Colleges Act, 2006 (Act No. 16 of 2006) and its accompanying Regulations which enjoin the DHET to register private education institutions offering Further Education and Training (FET) qualifications. Since the government has a constitutional obligation to provide education to its citizens, it has a responsibility to invest its resources into the public education institutions. Accordingly, DHET is hard at work for the duration of NSDS III to build capacity, among others, of public colleges for quality provision and to enable more learners, especially those who cannot afford market-related fees, to access skills development programmes.

(i)(aa)

Notwithstanding the constitutional provision cited above, and in line with the provision of Section 29(4) of the same Constitution, Section 29(1) of the Adult Education Act, 2000 (Act No.52 of 2000) provides the Minister with the prerogative to determine norms and standards or conditions for granting of subsidies to registered private centres after consultation with the Council of Education Ministers, and with the concurrence of the Minister of Finance. The Minister is in the process of formulating a National Policy that will determine the required norms and standards to enable the PEDs Members of the Executive Councils (MECs) to grant such subsidies should they choose to do so. However the Western Cape Education Department, allowed by its budget allocation, is providing subsidies to eight (8) registered private centres. In addition the registered private centres have benefitted and continue to benefit from allocations through projects from the National Skills Fund (NSF). This situation underlines Governments mandate in Adult Education and Training to invest resources in the public sector to improve access to working class citizens.

(i)(bb)

Over the years and even before they were required to register with DHET, the majority of private colleges have been rolling out computer skills programmes with the grant assistance from the Media, Advertising and Information and Communication Technology Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT SETA) (formerly ISETT SETA). Of the four hundred and fifty seven (457) registered private FET colleges, ninety two (92)(20%)are offering computer skills programmes through grant assistance. Although DHET encourages SETAs to work closely with public FET colleges, there is nothing that precludes private colleges from making proposals to the relevant SETAs and to the NSF for grant assistance to roll out computer skills programmes, especially in places, communities where there is demand for such programmes and where there is no presence of a public FET college or any other public institution to offer such programmes.

(ii) Similarly, private colleges are benefitting from Early Childhood Development (ECD) Learnership contracts administered by the Education, Training and Development Practices – Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP SETA), where these colleges are responsible for the actual delivery of education and training. Out of the total of four hundred and fifty seven (457) registered private FET colleges 17 (4%) private colleges are implementing the ECD Learnerships.

QUESTION 2363

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 02/09/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 27 OF 2011)

Ms M A L Dunjwa (ANC) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1) Whether the task team reviewing the merger of Medunsa with University of of the North as a result of the impact on the training of health professionals will also review the impact that the merging of other universities has had on training for (a) engineering, (b) natural science and (c) other specified professionals; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details;

2) whether he has found that there are any grounds for demerging any universities in future; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW2739E

REPLY:

1) The training of professionals especially in relation to the engineering fields and the natural sciences are being monitored very closely. My Department held a meeting with all the Deans responsible for the production of scarce skills within the 23 Universities as well as all the professional bodies. A technical task team that will provide inputs and recommendations regarding the production of professionals of which the engineers are one of the targeted professions has been established.

2) The University of Limpopo merger was not successful not because the decision to merge was flawed but because of the inability of institutional constituencies to transcend their interests in the fulfilment of the broader national policy goals and objectives that underpinned the decision to merge. Therefore inefficiencies within management and governance structures resulted in a serious number of factors impacting on the success of the merger. This is therefore an isolated case within the dynamics of the higher education landscape and cannot be used as grounds for de-merging other institutions.

QUESTION 2329

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 02/09/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 27 OF 2011)

Ms E More (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1) Whether (a) his department and (b) any entity reporting to him was approached by a certain political organisation (name furnished) to contribute to its centenary celebrations; if so, in each case, (i) which entities and (ii) what was the (aa) nature and (bb) value of the contribution that was requested;

2) whether (a) his department and (b) any of the specified entities reporting to him agreed to the request; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, in each case, (i) who approved the request, (ii) what was the justification for the agreement to the request and (iii) from which budget will the contribution be paid;

3) whether (a) his department and (b) any of the specified entities reporting to him made financial contributions to the said political organisation without being approached for such financial contributions; if so, in each case, (i) what amount will be contributed, (ii) from which budget, (iii) who made the decision to provide the specified funds to the said political organisation and (iv) how is this (aaa) decision and (bbb) amount justified;

4) whether (a) his department and (b) any of the entities reporting to him rely on any (i) statutory and (ii) policy provisions in (aa) agreeing and (bb) making such contribution; if not, in each case, what is the position in this regard; if so, in each case, what are the relevant details?

NW2705E

REPLY:

1) Neither the department nor any entity reporting to me was approached by the African National Congress to contribute to its centenary celebrations.

2) Falls away

3) Falls away

4) Falls away

QUESTION 2224

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 19/08/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 25 OF 2011)

Mr M J Ellis (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1) Whether (a) he, (b) his deputy minister, (c) any specified officials and (d) any other persons have been issued with a government or official credit card during the period 1 April 2010 up to the latest specified date for which information is available; if so, what are the relevant details for him, his deputy minister and each holder of a credit card in respect of the (i) name, (ii) job title, (iii) credit limit, (iv) outstanding amount as at the latest specified date for which information is available, (v) monthly expenses incurred for each month since receiving the credit card, (vi) reason for such persons being issued with a credit card and (vii) uses that such a credit card is intended for;

2) whether any such credit cards are over their credit limit; if so, (a) whose credit cards are over the limit and (b) what is the reason for the credit cards exceeding the limit;

3) whether any action has been taken against such persons for exceeding their credit card limits; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW2599E

REPLY:

1 (a) No

(b) No

(d) No

2. Not applicable.

3. Not applicable.

QUESTION 2166

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 19/08/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 25 OF 2011)

Mr P D Dexter (Cope) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether he considered separating Medunsa and the University of Limpopo; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW2537E

REPLY:

Yes I have considered separating Medunsa and the University of Limpopo and have appointed a task team to review the University of Limpopo merger. The task team comprising Professors Malegapuru Makgoba and Dr Max Price, was constituted in September 2010. Their final report, submitted in March 2011 recommended that the institutions be separated. Based on the task team's recommendations, I have requested the Council on Higher Education (CHE) to provide advice on the matter. Once the advice is received I will therefore make a decision on the way forward.

QUESTION 2103

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 12/08/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 23 OF 2011)

Mr A P van der Westhuizen (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

With regard to the Auditor-General's findings that indicated only 11 out of 50 public Further Education and Training (FET) Colleges submitted their annual report for the year ending 31 December 2010 by the end of July 2011, (a) which colleges submitted their reports, (b) what (i) are the reasons for the delay in submitting the required reports and (ii) measures are in place to ensure compliance in terms of regulations regarding the submission of annual reports and (c) what steps will be taken against those colleges who did not submit their annual reports?

NW2377E

REPLY:

(a) 15 FET Colleges submitted their Audited Financial Statements. See attached checklist (Annexure A).

(b) (i) The delay has been attributed to a number of issues, the most common are: delays caused by a protracted process of engagement between the external auditors and the respective college councils in signing off the Audit Report for 2009/10 and other FET Colleges are still responding to audit queries from the external auditors. The discussion between the external auditors, college management and council has increased dramatically following the feedback on the financial analysis of 2008 and the new requirements of South African –Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (SA - GAAP) as it impacts on fiduciary responsibility.

(ii) If the FET Colleges do not comply with the requirement, the department may request approval from the National Treasury to withhold the transfer of funds. Letters of warning have been sent to the colleges who have not submitted their Financial Reports, requiring them to submit or face further administrative action.

(c) If there is still non-compliance by Mid September 2011, the Department will take further action as set out in section 16 (1) (a) of the Division of Revenue Act. The section indicates that the "transferring national officer may withhold the transfer of a Schedule 4 allocation, or any portion of such allocation, for a period not exceeding 30 days, if the province does not comply with the provisions of this Act or conditions to which the allocation, as provided for in the relevant framework, is subject".

QUESTION 2102

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 12/08/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 23 OF 2011)

Mr A P van der Westhuizen (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

1) Which further education and training (FET) colleges (a) have not submitted financial statements by the due date and (b) received qualified audits with regard to the 2009-10 financial year;

2) whether his department has taken any steps to improve the situation; if not, why not; if so, (a) what steps, (b) how did these interventions improve the situation regarding the standard of (i) financial management and (ii) reporting at each of the FET colleges and (c) in what respect have these aspects improved?

NW2376E

REPLY:

1) (a) 32 FET Colleges did not meet the due date for the submission of audited financial statements. Please see the checklist attached (Annexure A).

(b) 16 FET Colleges received a qualified audit opinion in the financial year ended 31 December 2009. Please see the checklist attached (Annexure B).

2) Yes, the Department has taken steps.

(a) In 2009, the department in conjunction with the National Treasury developed sets of the Standards Chart of Accounts (SCOA) for income, assets and liabilities that FET Colleges would use for financial reporting. The purpose was to improve consistency in financial management recording and reporting. Furthermore, during 2010, the Department developed manual and guideline for the implementation of South African –Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (SA - GAAP) as the accounting standard for the FET Colleges in the place of GAAP. This has set a uniform accounting standard and related financial practice requirements across the college system. In addition, a set of Financial Statement Templates which conform to the requirement of SA-GAAP have been developed and are now implemented in all colleges as of this year. In November 2010, the Department organised an accounting workshop where Financial Statements and its components were discussed and explained from both an accounting and management perspective.

(b) The Department's intervention improved financial management in FET Colleges:

(i) This is evident through the timely and accurate monthly financial reports submitted by FET Colleges where revenue/income and expenditure/payments are recorded.

(ii) Through the use of SCOA across all colleges, the information in the reports is more readily assessed and analysed. The colleges have shown improvements in cash flow management and student debt management.

(c) The Department is now able to compare and consolidate figures reported by FET Colleges on a monthly basis and to assess the ongoing financial health of the sector. Sector wide, there has been an improvement in cash-flow management and expenditure Control.

QUESTION 2101

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 12/08/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 23 OF 2011)

Mr A P van der Westhuizen (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

What were the total legal costs incurred by (a) his department and (b) the Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Seta) in terms of the legal battles following the amendments to the constitution of the Seta which led to six court applications between his department, the Seta and others in 2011?

NW2375E

REPLY:

The amounts as indicated below were incurred by my Department and the Services SETA in terms of the legal battles following the amendments to the constitution of the SETA which led to six court applications:

(a) The following fees were paid by the Department to three senior counsels and one junior counsel briefed through the office of the State Attorney, Johannesburg -


Name of counsels	Amount Paid
Adv Malindi SC	499320.00
Adv M Zulu	408000.00
Adv Dukada SC	119130.00
Adv Mokhari SC	810545.00
Total amount paid	1 836 995.00

(b) The following fees were paid by the Services SETA to their attorneys, Edward Nathan Sonnenberg Inc, in the said legal battles -


Name of Attorney	Total Amount Paid
Edward Nathan Sonnenberg Inc	2 095 295.89

In addition to the above, an amount of R133 365.38 is still due to Edward Nathan Sonnenberg Inc.

It should be noted that the matter is still awaiting the outcome of the petition and signing of settlement agreement by the parties.

QUESTION 2061

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 12/08/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 23 OF 2011)

Mrs J C Moloi-Moropa (ANC) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

Whether, with reference to corruption for which senior managers of the Public Service Sector Education and Training Authority (PSETA) are reportedly serving prison sentences, the funds for which they had been arrested have been recovered; if not, why not; if so, how much?

NW2225E

REPLY:

In 2005 the PSETA suffered financial loss due to mismanagement by the then Finance Manager Mr. Munyai, who was employed on a contract basis for the implementation of the NSF approved project.

The DPSA managed the process of the apprehension and sentencing of the Finance Manager who is currently serving 10 year imprisonment with effect from 2007 after being convicted on 38 counts of fraud and theft. The investigation/sentencing was done in conjunction with the SAPS Commercial Crimes Unit and Asset Forfeiture Unit,

A forensic investigation was commissioned to quantify the full extent of the financial mismanagement and concluded that at least R1,419,920 was fraudulently taken from PSETA's bank account and of this amount only R320,022 was recovered from Mr. Munyai which was paid back accordingly.

The case has been referred to the Special Investigating Unit for further investigation of other parties including providers and former PSETA officials that could have been involved in the mismanagement of the NSF project.

The above investigation is not finalised and the relevant authorities will be informed of the outcome thereof once it is concluded.

QUESTION 2014

DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 05/08/2011

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER 21 OF 2011)

Mr M J Ellis (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training:

(a) At how many (i) international and (ii) domestic hotels/guest houses were (aa) he and (bb) his Deputy Minister accommodated during the period 1 April 2009 up to the latest specified date for which information is available and (b) what (i) was the (aa) name, (bb) star rating and (cc) city location of each specified establishment, (ii) was the (aa) duration and (bb) purpose of the stay in each case and (iii)(aa) was the total cost of the accommodation and (bb) is the breakdown of the accommodation cost in each case?

NW2260E

REPLY:

The Minister and Deputy Minister may use hotels when travelling for official purposes at the expense of their Departments. Official use of hotels includes, amongst others trips from Pretoria to Cape Town for Parliamentary Sittings and appearances, as well as international trips, which require Ministers to execute official duties.

All hotel bookings are used for official duty and this is an enabling factor for Public Participation Programmes of Ministers who have to meet demanding schedules.

Ministers may use three to five star hotels for official purposes and for reasons, including, if the facilities of other hotels are not cost-effective and / or readily available, in a specific instance.

The Ministry (and its support staff) is responsible for determining the cost-effectiveness of all trips including hotel bookings carried out by Minister and Deputy Minister and ensure that the intended journeys meet the requirements of relevant guidelines.

(i) The following information pertains to use of international hotels for the 2009/10 and 2010/11 financial years.

(aa) The Minister was accommodated in 14 international hotels for 14 times

(bb) The Deputy Minister was accommodated in 2 in international hotels for 2 times

(ii) The following pertains to use of local hotels for the 2009/10 and 2010/11 financial years

(aa) The Minister was accommodated in seventeen (17) local hotels/guest houses for 38 times

(bb) The Deputy Minister was accommodated in 11 local hotels/guest houses for 14 times

(b) (i) (aa) (bb) and (cc)

The details requested by the honourable member cannot be provided for security reasons. The purpose and star of the hotel is as indicated in paragraphs 1-4 above.

(iii) (aa) The total cost of the accommodation at local and international hotels for the Minister and Deputy Minister was R571,883.00

2011-06-09

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