The University of Venda faces a governance crisis as Minister Buti Manamela initiates steps to appoint an independent assessor to investigate allegations, leadership concerns and the institution’s executive management structures.
Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela has moved to appoint an independent assessor at the University of Venda after unresolved allegations against senior university officials escalated into a governance crisis threatening the stability of the institution.
The Department of Higher Education and Training said Manamela had notified the university council of his intention to invoke section 44(1) of the Higher Education Act, which allows him to appoint an independent assessor to investigate governance concerns at the institution.
The move follows allegations contained in anonymous letters against the university’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, as well as its Chief Operating Officer, which have contributed to strained relations within the institution.
Higher Education spokesperson Matshepo Seedat said Manamela met with the university’s Executive Management and Council on June 5 following the allegations and concerns arising from the dispute, including threats of suspension and subsequent litigation.
