Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has informed the University of Venda Council of his intention to appoint an Independent Assessor following growing governance concerns and leadership instability at the institution.
The proposed appointment comes after allegations were made against the university's Vice-Chancellor and Principal, as well as its Chief Operating Officer, and follows reports that both executives have been placed on precautionary suspension.
Governance Challenges Escalate At University Of Venda
According to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), Minister Manamela met with the University's Executive Management and Council on 5 June 2026 after anonymous letters containing allegations against the two senior officials created tensions within the institution.
The allegations reportedly resulted in strained relationships among university leaders, threats of suspension and legal action.
Following the meeting, it was agreed that the issues would be resolved through the university's internal governance structures instead of continued litigation. The University Council was also expected to report back to the Minister on progress.
However, DHET said the situation has worsened rather than improved.
Minister Raises Concerns About Leadership Instability
The department said the reported precautionary suspensions of the Vice-Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer have heightened concerns about governance, leadership and the overall stability of the University of Venda.
Minister Manamela warned that the ongoing instability could negatively affect the institution's ability to fulfil its academic mandate.
"The continued instability risks undermining the university's ability to fulfil its mandate of providing quality teaching and learning," Manamela said.
Independent Assessor May Investigate University Governance
To prevent further deterioration, the Minister has invoked Section 44(1) of the Higher Education Act, notifying the University Council of his intention to appoint an Independent Assessor.
If appointed, the Independent Assessor will investigate several matters, including:
- Allegations against the Vice-Chancellor and Principal.
- The current state of governance at the University of Venda.
- The effectiveness of the university's governance and executive management structures.
- Any other issues affecting institutional stability.
University Council Given 14 Days To Respond
In accordance with the Higher Education Act, the University Council has been given 14 days to submit representations to the Minister regarding his intention to appoint an Independent Assessor.
Manamela has also urged the public and the media not to interfere with the statutory process or speculate while the assessment is being considered.
“The appointment of an Independent Assessor is a legislated governance mechanism intended to establish the facts and make recommendations that will enable the university to restore stability and strengthen institutional governance,” the Minister said.
Academic Programme Expected To Continue
The Minister reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the university's academic programme throughout the process.
He assured students, staff and other stakeholders that the Department of Higher Education and Training will continue supporting the University of Venda to ensure that teaching, learning and administrative operations continue without disruption while the governance process unfolds.
