Higher Education and Training Minister Dr Nobuhle Pamela Nkabane has welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s proclamation authorising the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to probe the National Skills Fund (NSF). This SIU investigation targets allegations of serious maladministration, unlawful conduct by NSF officials, and potential mismanagement of NSF funds.
Scope of the SIU Probe
The SIU will examine procurement and contracting processes across all NSF-funded skills development programmes, training projects, and implementing-agent appointments. Covering the period from 1 January 2013 to 28 March 2025, the investigation will scrutinise the actions of NSF employees, service providers, suppliers, and other stakeholders named in the Presidential proclamation.
Initial Engagement Between SIU and NSF
In a statement issued Tuesday, Minister Nkabane—also Executive Authority of the NSF—confirmed that the SIU has formally served a letter of intent and held an initial briefing with NSF leadership. During this session, NSF representatives received a comprehensive overview of the SIU’s mandate and the documentation required to support the inquiry.
NSF’s Commitment to Compliance and Transparency
“As a law-abiding entity within the Department of Higher Education and Training, the NSF will fully cooperate with the SIU,” Dr Nkabane affirmed. The NSF has pledged to supply all necessary information, including records from internal investigations and prior audit reports. “We believe this collaboration will enable the SIU to conduct its work efficiently,” she added, “and set the NSF on a renewed path as a catalytic change agent for skills development.”
Reaffirming the NSF’s Role in Skills Development
Minister Nkabane reiterated the NSF’s critical mandate to address national skills shortages and empower South Africa’s youth. “We remain committed to driving progress and unlocking our workforce’s potential through strategic investment in skills development,” she said.
By fostering transparency and accountability through the SIU investigation, the National Skills Fund aims to reinforce public trust and accelerate its mission of equipping South Africans with the skills needed for sustainable economic growth.
