Tag Archives: The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training

Portfolio Committee congratulates Ngcamphalala

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Thobile Ngcamphalala

By REGINALD KANYANE

16 April 2025 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training, Tebogo Letsie has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Thobile Ngcamphalala on her remarkable academic achievement. Ngcamphalala recently graduated with a Master’s Degree in Pure Mathematics with Distinction from Rhodes University.

Ngcamphalala has made history by becoming the first black South African woman in 33 years to obtain a Master’s Degree in the field of Topology with distinction.

“This is truly inspiring news. It is encouraging to see young black women breaking barriers, pioneering in traditionally underrepresented fields and excelling at the highest academic levels.

“What makes Ngcamphalala’s achievement even more exceptional is that she began her journey through the extended curriculum programme, which is a support route designed for students requiring additional time,” said Letsie.

He further said her success is a testament to her resilience, determination and unwavering commitment to excellence. Letsie added that the committee wishes Ngcamphalala continued success as she prepares to embark on her PhD studies in Pure Mathematics later this year.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

The University of Mpumalanga appoints Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa as new vice-chancellor

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The newly appointed University of Mpumalanga Vice Chancellor, Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

9 April 2025 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training, Tebogo Letsie, has warmly welcomed the appointment of Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa as the new Vice-Chancellor of the University of Mpumalanga (UMP). Letsie said they extend their heartfelt congratulations to Meyiwa on her appointment.

He further said the committee is confident in her leadership, vision and ability to steer UMP towards new heights of academic excellence and innovation. Letsie added that they are pleased that the council has once again appointed a female Vice-Chancellor to lead this esteemed institution.

“This is a positive and progressive step in a sector that continues to be largely male dominated. The committee also expressed its sincere gratitude to the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Professor Thoko Mayekiso, for her exceptional service and leadership since the establishment of UMP in 2013.

“We thank Mayekiso for her dedicated service and wish her the very best in her future endeavours. Meyiwa brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role,” he said.

Letsie said since 2018, she has served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Postgraduate Studies, Innovation and Commercialisation at the University of South Africa. He said her distinguished career includes several senior academic and administrative roles across various institutions.

“Meyiwa is set to officially assume her duties as Vice-Chancellor of UMP on 1 October 2025,” said Letsie.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

‘Concerns over R580m surrendered to National Treasury allegations’ 

NEWS Leave a comment

By REGINALD KANYANE 

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training, Tebogo Letsie has expressed concern over a recent statement that an amount of R580 million was surrendered to the National Treasury by the Department of Higher Education and Training.

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. He further said when a Minister has information about underspending, they must table it in parliament and not on social media platforms.

Letsie added that a significant portion of the underspent funds was allocated for compensation of employees, unfilled vacancies and for goods and services. 

“Challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic were another contributing factor. 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. 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,” he said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com