Stories about Higher Ed funds returned to Treasury are misleading, says chairperson

24 July 2024

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training, Mr Tebogo Letsie, has expressed concern over a recent statement that an amount of R580 million was surrendered to National Treasury by the Department of Higher Education and Training.
 
Mr Letsie said the committee is deeply concerned that such misleading statements could provoke students to act irresponsibly, under the false impression that crucial financial support was forfeited without due care. The Chairperson said when a minister has information about underspending, they must table it in Parliament and not on social media platforms.
 
Mr Letsie explained that a significant portion of the underspent funds was allocated for compensation of employees, unfilled vacancies and for goods and services. He also cited challenges related to the Covid-19 pandemic as another contributing factor.
 
Mr Letsie said, “Many students have not yet received their allowances and might mistakenly believe that funds which could alleviate their financial difficulties were surrendered to the National Treasury.” This misconception could lead to heightened tensions and possible disruptive actions by the affected students, he added.
 
The committee cautions the ministry to refrain from going to the media with reckless statements and would appreciate a briefing on this matter from the Department of Higher Education and Training given that the committee approves the appropriation of funds for the sector.

Issued by Jabulani Majozi, Media Officer, Parliament, 24 July 2024