By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, has served a notice of his intention to place the University of South Africa (UNISA) under administration.
Nzimande is expected to announce his final decision on Friday.
Governance at the country’s oldest university has been in the spotlight over the past few months amid claims of maladministration and tender fraud.
An independent report commissioned by the Department of Higher Education recommended the institution be placed under administration.
This came after an investigation revealed severe financial and maladministration issues undermining the institution’s effective functioning.
Spokesperson Ishmael Mnisi says Nzimande delayed making his decision on mutual agreement that the period of the written representations was extended to the 4th of September.
“Being mindful of the legal and administrative requirements, the Minister awaited the response of the Unisa council…instead, the Council is going about its business as if there is no pending decision to be taken,” he says.
“As a result, the Minister cannot wait indefinitely without taking a decision.”
According to the report, the appointment of an administrator would be in the best interest of Unisa and of higher education.
Nzimande’s decision comes after an application brought by the university’s former registrar, Professor Steward Mothata, on 20 June in the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria to declare the council no longer “properly constituted” after the resignation of several members.