Pretoria: In a decisive response to a controversial report, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has categorically denied using money from departmental entities to fund the South African Communist Party (SACP) or receiving personal kickbacks.
According to South Africa Government News Agency, The Minister’s denial came during a media briefing on Monday in Pretoria, following a report by the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA). The report accused him of accepting millions of rands in kickbacks from service providers to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and alleged payments to NSFAS board chair Ernest Khosa and the SACP.
Nzimande denounced these claims as baseless and malicious, part of a campaign to discredit him. “These are all lies that emanate from a malicious fight back campaign. My conscience is clear, and I have nothing to hide or fear,” he stated. He also noted his intention to take legal action and subject himself to the legal processes and ethics bodies of the African National Congress (ANC) and the SACP.
Highlighting his efforts against corruption, Nzimande referenced the appointment of an Administrator at NSFAS and disciplinary actions against employees involved in financial misconduct. He supported initiatives to address issues with “ghost students” and directed the implementation of recommendations from the Werksman Report, including terminating contracts of direct payment service providers.
Nzimande further clarified his role in fundraising for the SACP, ensuring compliance with guidelines that prohibit raising funds from departmental entities or service providers. He also dismissed any direct influence in the allocation of training funds by Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), including the Services SETA mentioned in the report.
Addressing the allegations against himself and the NSFAS chairperson, Nzimande condemned them as part of a broader campaign against anti-corruption measures. He linked them to threats against the NSFAS Chairperson and efforts to undermine the Board’s decision to terminate contracts with four direct payment solution providers.
The Minister stressed the importance of the upcoming academic year, noting that the report and leaked recordings are attempts to disrupt its smooth start and disregard the welfare of students. He will meet with the NSFAS Board to discuss progress on the 2024 application process, 2023 disbursements, accommodation pilot project, and the Comprehensive Funding Model.
Concluding, Nzimande reaffirmed his commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring clean governance at NSFAS and all entities under his departments. He also reassured the public and stakeholders of his dedication to a smooth start for the 2024 academic year, with plans to hold press conferences later in the week.