Buti Manamela appointed as new Minister of Higher Education – what you need to know

In a swift Cabinet reshuffle, President Cyril Ramaphosa has reappointed Buti Manamela as Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation. The decision follows the unexpected resignation of Nobuhle Nkabane, who stepped down just a month into the role under mounting internal pressure.

Manamela, a familiar figure in the department, is returning to the portfolio he previously served in as deputy minister. His appointment was officially confirmed on Monday, 21 July 2025, and has been widely seen as a stabilizing move amid ongoing tensions within the ministry and student unrest on several campuses.

Nkabane’s Short-Lived Tenure Ends Abruptly

Nobuhle Nkabane’s resignation has raised eyebrows across political and academic circles. Her exit was prompted by “differences in governance direction” and a lack of support from senior officials and stakeholders in the sector.

Her time in office was marred by communication challenges with university managements, NSFAS policy confusion, and growing dissatisfaction from student unions. Sources within the department confirmed that the presidency had grown concerned about her ability to manage the complex and highly politicized portfolio.

Manamela’s Return Signals Policy Continuity

The return of Buti Manamela is widely viewed as a move toward policy continuity and restoring confidence in the Department of Higher Education. During his previous tenure, Manamela was instrumental in navigating student funding crises, pushing for TVET college reforms, and enhancing digital learning infrastructure.

Political analyst Sifiso Gumede told News24, “Manamela’s experience and networks within the sector make him a logical choice. He understands the terrain and won’t need a learning curve.”

READ ALSO 

Nobuhle Nkabane skips Parliament over SETA scandal — What happens next?

Court sets Oct 10, 2025 for motion to halt trial of Nnamdi Kanu

Challenges Ahead: NSFAS, Fees, and Campus Safety

Manamela’s immediate priorities include resolving ongoing issues with NSFAS disbursements, improving infrastructure in historically disadvantaged institutions, and addressing renewed calls for the scrapping of student debt. Rising campus crime and gender-based violence incidents will also demand urgent attention.

The new minister inherits a ministry still reeling from years of protest and policy uncertainty. But stakeholders are hopeful his return will bring much-needed steadiness.

Mixed Reactions from Education Sector

Reactions to the reshuffle have been mixed. While student leaders from SAUS welcomed Manamela’s appointment, calling it “a return to reason,” some civil society groups urged the minister to prioritize transparency and accountability.

University of Johannesburg SRC president Thandi Ndlovu said, “We hope he will re-engage with students, resume dialogues that were cut off, and address inequalities with seriousness.”

 

 

A Familiar Face with Unfinished Business

Manamela’s reappointment places him at the center of a critical portfolio with far-reaching implications for youth development and national innovation. As the academic sector prepares for the 2026 budget cycle, his performance over the next few months will be closely watched by students, unions, and parliament alike.

With experience, resilience, and a mandate to bring order, Buti Manamela steps back into the hot seat, and this time, expectations are even higher.