Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane has issued a public apology to respected legal advocate Terry Motau after mistakenly naming him as a member of an “independent panel” involved in the highly contentious appointment process for SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) boards.
The apology comes amid growing public outrage over alleged irregularities and opacity surrounding the appointment of board members who oversee critical skills development and training initiatives across multiple sectors.
❌ A Case of Mistaken Identity
Minister Nkabane admitted the error in including Motau’s name on the panel, calling it an “unintended oversight” that unfortunately exacerbated public distrust in an already troubled process.
“I sincerely apologize to Advocate Terry Motau for the unintended inclusion of his name in the panel list,” Nkabane said in a statement. “We are committed to rectifying the issues in the appointment process and ensuring accountability.”
🏛️ Motau Distances Himself
Advocate Motau, widely respected for his legal expertise and integrity, swiftly clarified that he had no involvement in the SETA board selection process and rejected any association with the flawed panel.
🔍 Calls for Accountability and Reform
The controversy has reignited calls from civil society, industry stakeholders, and opposition parties for greater transparency and oversight mechanisms to prevent future mishandling of appointments in crucial public sector bodies.
Many argue that the apology, while necessary, is just the first step in restoring confidence in a system currently perceived as vulnerable to mismanagement.
⚖️ What’s Next?
Minister Nkabane has pledged to investigate the appointment irregularities thoroughly and to implement corrective measures to safeguard the integrity of the SETA framework. However, critics warn that more robust reforms are essential to ensure that such mistakes—and the erosion of public trust—do not recur.
As the education sector and broader public watch closely, questions remain about whether the controversial appointments will be revisited or overturned in light of the fallout.
