Who is South Africa’s new higher education minister?

University sector welcomes appointment of cabinet newcomer Nobuhle Nkabane

Nobuhle Nkabane has been appointed minister for higher education in the ‘government of national unity’ cabinet announced by South African president Cyril Ramaphosa.

Nkabane, a member of the African National Congress, takes over from Blade Nzimande, who has been given the science and innovation portfolio. Higher education, science and innovation were one portfolio in the previous government, but Ramaphosa announced on 30 June that he was splitting them to make room for political partners in his coalition government and to “focus on key issues”.