Buti Manamela: 10 things to know about South Africa’s new Higher Education Minister
Buti Manamela
South Africa’s higher education sector is once again under the leadership of Buti Manamela, following the resignation of Nobuhle Nkabane. With student protests, NSFAS challenges, and campus safety concerns on the horizon, Manamela’s return brings both experience and scrutiny. Here are 10 important things you should know about the man now leading one of the country’s most critical portfolios.
1. Buti Manamela is Not New to the Role
Buti Manamela previously served as Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology from 2017 until 2024. His familiarity with the sector makes him a trusted figure in managing student funding systems and institutional transformation.
2. Former Deputy Minister in Multiple Departments
Before his higher education role, Manamela served as Deputy Minister in the Presidency, responsible for Planning, Performance Monitoring, and Youth Development from 2014 to 2017. This wide-ranging experience made him a versatile asset in government.
3. Buti Manamela Rose from Student Activism
Manamela began his political journey in the South African Students Congress (SASCO) and the Young Communist League (YCL), where he quickly rose through the ranks. His student activism laid the foundation for his lifelong involvement in youth and education issues.
4. Buti Manamela is an ANC Loyalist with Communist Roots
He is a long-standing member of the African National Congress (ANC) and the South African Communist Party (SACP). Manamela served as the National Secretary of the YCL and is known for his strong ideological stance on education access and youth development.
5. Buti Manamela is an Advocates for Youth Employment and Skills
As Deputy Minister, Manamela championed programs aimed at addressing youth unemployment, especially through TVET college expansions, artisan training, and partnerships with the private sector to increase job-readiness.
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6. Buti Manamela Holds a Degree in Mechanical Engineering
Manamela studied Mechanical Engineering at the Tshwane University of Technology. Though he did not complete the program, he has always emphasized the importance of STEM education and technical skills for South Africa’s development.
7. Buti Manamela Is a Published Author
In 2013, he published a book titled “An Incomplete Youth: Reflections on Politics and Development.” The book critiques post-apartheid youth development strategies and reflects his passion for transformative policy-making.
8. Buti Manamela Is Known for His Calm but Firm Leadership
Colleagues describe Manamela as a disciplined and composed leader, often opting for negotiations rather than confrontation during student protests. His ability to remain steady during public pressure has made him respected across political lines.
9. Buti Manamela is A Strong Advocate of Free Higher Education
Throughout his political career, he has supported incremental implementation of free education for the poor. He has worked closely with the NSFAS board to improve disbursement systems and reduce administrative backlogs.
10. Buti Manamela Faces a Critical Moment in South African Education
With his recent reappointment, Manamela now leads the ministry at a time of rising frustration over student debt, campus security, and post-COVID education reforms. The public will be watching closely as he tackles longstanding structural issues.
A Minister with Experience and Expectations
Buti Manamela’s return to the Ministry of Higher Education marks a full-circle moment in his career. While his experience offers hope for continuity, the stakes are high. As universities prepare for the 2026 academic year, Manamela must navigate urgent demands and reinstate trust in the system.
