The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, appointed Professor Themba Mosia as the Independent Assessor. Prof Mosia conducted the investigation into the affairs of the University of South Africa (Unisa).
Dr Nzimande extended the appointment for a period not exceeding 90 days from 13 December 2022. The investigation concluded within the period stated in the extension Notice.
The Independent Assessor was given the approval to submit the report by 31 March 2023. The Act states that the Minister should within 90 days of receiving the report, release a copy of the council concerned, table the report before the National Assembly, and publish the report in the Gazette.
In fulfilling the requirements of the Act, Dr Nzimande provided a copy of the Report to the Council of the University. He is currently in the process of releasing it in the Government Gazette, which will be released soon.
The report will be submitted to Hon Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, the Speaker, for tabling before the National Assembly. According to Nzimande, he is studying the report and will think about the next steps regarding implementing the recommendations.
Nzimande took time in the statement to thank Prof Mosia for his work. He also thanks the Unisa community for the assistance in the investigation.
“I thank all stakeholders who made presentations to the Independent Assessor, and all who cooperated with the Independent Assessor to ensure that the investigation was done and concluded successfully,” read the statement.