South Africa's post-school education system 'functional' despite challenges

Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela said South Africa’s post-school education system remains functional and continues to produce results, despite challenges in meeting all targets.

Manamela was speaking at a media briefing on Saturday, following the tabling of the Department’s 2024/25 Annual Report in Parliament earlier this week.

He noted that the report marks not only the end of the financial year but also the end of the sixth administration, setting the stage for the Department’s next cycle.

Manamela affirmed that the system continues to deliver through universities, TVET colleges, and Sector Education and Training Authorities by expanding access and improving quality.

According to the Minister, the system now produces around 220,000 graduates every year, supports over 1.3 million students across public and private institutions, and trains around 20,000 artisans annually.

On financial performance, Manamela noted a reduction in irregular expenditure:

“The irregular expenditure was reduced to R175 million from R243 million. Yes, it may seem as though R175 million is still a lot, but I think the fact that in that year we have reduced expenditure to that extent means that it is something that we have to acknowledge.”