Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has referred governance concerns at the Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT SETA) to the National Skills Authority (NSA) for assessment.
In a media statement issued on 17 July 2026, the minister said recent developments involving the SETA’s Accounting Authority (AA) and executive management — including the resignation of senior executives — required urgent and objective scrutiny. MICT SETA plays a key role in coordinating skills development within South Africa’s post-school education and training system.
The NSA has been tasked with conducting a rapid governance assessment to establish the facts, evaluate governance processes and recommend any necessary interventions. It is expected to consult relevant stakeholders, provide an interim briefing on urgent matters and submit a comprehensive report within a prescribed timeframe.
Sources familiar with internal dynamics, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described divisions within the Accounting Authority and alleged the existence of two opposing camps. According to these sources, some appointments made during a previous leadership term continue to influence decision-making processes, creating tensions within the current governance structure.
Sources allege that certain administrative and advisory appointments were made in a manner that has extended past influence beyond official terms of office, contributing to internal instability and potentially weakening the authority of the current leadership. These allegations could not be independently verified at the time of publication. Student Times is continuing to seek comment and will update the story as more information becomes available.
The Department of Higher Education and Training has stressed that the referral to the National Skills Authority does not constitute a finding of wrongdoing against any individual or institution. It says the move forms part of broader efforts to strengthen governance, accountability and institutional effectiveness across Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs).
The Minister said that while the assessment is underway, MICT SETA’s operations, including support to learners, employers and skills development programmes, are expected to continue.
“Any further action will depend on the findings and recommendations of the National Skills Authority,” he said.
