By Thapelo Molefe
Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has intervened at the Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), meeting the institution’s council and management amid renewed governance and leadership instability following the end of its administration period.
The meeting took place after a series of developments raised concerns about governance at the Durban-based university, which exited administration earlier this year.
A new council was appointed in January, months after the administration period ended, but the institution has since faced fresh turbulence.
Central to the discussions were ongoing challenges that recently led to the suspension of the vice-chancellor and two other senior managers. The suspensions have left critical leadership vacancies, creating what the department described as a vacuum in key positions necessary for the university’s stability.
Council chairperson briefed Manamela on steps taken since the council’s appointment to stabilise MUT, including efforts to address financial pressures, tighten governance controls, fill key posts and mitigate identified risks.
These interventions are seen as crucial as the university works to consolidate its recovery and prepare for the 2026 academic year.
In response, Manamela said his department would provide direct support to the council in carrying out its oversight responsibilities. He instructed the council chairperson to formally outline the specific challenges facing the university and to indicate what support is required from the department.
The minister also directed that the disciplinary process involving the suspended vice-chancellor be finalised urgently to ensure leadership stability is restored.
“We are going to support the university on this journey as the 2026 academic year depends on a stable university that is able to provide an academic programme with integrity,” Manamela said.
He added that the council must govern the institution in line with the Higher Education Act and ensure policies are properly implemented.
Manamela stressed that safeguarding the 2026 academic year was his overriding priority, warning the council to maintain a clear separation between governance oversight and day-to-day management functions.
Despite the challenges, the minister expressed confidence in the council and management, saying he believed they were doing their best under difficult circumstances and wished them well as they continue to steer the university forward.
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