Dr Nkosinathi Sishi, director-general of higher education and training, has expressed interest in serving a second term as his five-year contract nears its end in October. Parliament committee members, however, have voiced strong reservations about his performance and the state of the sector.
Sishi was appointed in 2021 after the departure of his predecessor. He has overseen the launch of initiatives such as the Gert Sibande TVET College 4IR Digital Innovation Lab and advanced several pieces of legislation, including the Skills Development Amendment Bill, the NSFAS Amendment Bill, and the Central Application Service Bill.
His tenure has included work on a funding model for missing-middle students. In 2025, however, only 2,499 of 65,812 loan applications met the eligibility criteria.
Members of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education have criticised the department’s record. DA MP Karabo Khakhau described a state of collapse in the Setas, while MK MP Mnqobi Msezane said the work of the department appeared shaky. Committee chairperson Tebogo Letsie noted difficulties in obtaining information from the department.
Minister Buti Manamela said decisions about Sishi’s contract would follow standard employment procedures.