South Africa’s Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane, has resigned from her position following mounting pressure over allegations of financial mismanagement and procurement irregularities. The education ministry confirmed her departure in a statement on Monday.
Dr. Nkabane had faced growing criticism after parliamentary reports and media investigations revealed potential misconduct during her tenure. Both opposition parties and members of the ruling ANC had called for her removal in recent months.
In her resignation statement, Dr. Nkabane thanked President Cyril Ramaphosa for the opportunity to serve, but did not directly address the allegations against her. Political analysts view her resignation as an attempt to reduce political tensions ahead of next year’s local government elections.
The presidency has not yet named a replacement, though sources indicate an acting minister will be appointed while Ramaphosa consults with ANC leadership. Opposition parties, including the DA and EFF, have welcomed the resignation but are demanding a full investigation into the ministry’s operations under Dr. Nkabane.
This cabinet reshuffle comes amid ongoing concerns about accountability in South Africa’s government institutions, marking another challenge for Ramaphosa’s administration.