A Cabinet reshuffle announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa has resulted in changes within the Department of Higher Education and Training, with Democratic Alliance (DA) member Dr Mimmy Gondwe being replaced as Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training.
The changes form part of a broader reshuffle affecting several DA representatives serving in the Government of National Unity.
Cabinet Reshuffle Follows Request From New DA Leader
The Cabinet changes come after newly elected DA leader, Geordin Hill-Lewis, reportedly wrote to President Cyril Ramaphosa requesting adjustments to the party's government representatives.
One of the most notable changes sees John Steenhuisen moved from his position as Minister of Agriculture to become Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition.
Yusuf Cassim Appointed As New Higher Education Deputy Minister
Within the Higher Education and Training portfolio, Dr Mimmy Gondwe has been recalled by the Democratic Alliance and will be replaced by Yusuf Cassim.
Cassim brings experience in the higher education sector to the role, having served as a member of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Higher Education. He also has a background in student politics and is expected to bring a youth-focused perspective to the department.
The appointment comes at a time when the higher education sector continues to face important challenges relating to student funding, access to tertiary education and graduate employment.
Gondwe Active In Higher Education Sector Before Recall
Prior to her departure, Dr Gondwe had been actively engaging with stakeholders across the post-school education and training sector.
In recent weeks, she held discussions with private colleges and higher education institutions regarding opportunities for greater collaboration between government and the private education sector.
She also recently attracted attention after publicly calling for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to be disbanded, with its responsibilities potentially being transferred directly to colleges and universities.
Outgoing Deputy Minister Reflects On Her Achievements
In a statement confirming her recall from the position, Mimmy Gondwe highlighted several initiatives undertaken during her tenure.
Among these was the Deputy Minister's HelpDesk, which reportedly handled more than 67,000 enquiries and achieved a 91% resolution rate.
Dr Gondwe expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve students and the higher education sector.
Dr Gondwe said, "I wish my successor well and every success in building on the foundation i have laid. I will continue to keep all students in my heart and in my prayers".
What The Change Means For Higher Education
The appointment of Yusuf Cassim signals a new chapter for the Department of Higher Education and Training as government continues to focus on improving access to education, strengthening student support systems and addressing challenges within the sector.
Stakeholders across universities, TVET colleges and student organisations will be watching closely to see how the new Deputy Minister approaches key issues affecting South Africa's higher education landscape.
