Durban — The management of Coastal KZN Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College has responded to recent claims by the Public Service Association (PSA) regarding the college's governance, financial mismanagement and leadership issues.
Acting Principal Thembekile Msimang was disappointed in the PSA’s media release dated September 25, labelling it as ‘“sensationalism” and asserting that the union had failed to engage in consultative processes before going public.
The PSA called for the Minister of Higher Education and Training Dr Nobuhle Nkabane’s intervention, citing governance breakdowns and operational failures at the college. Msimang, however, disputed many of the union’s assertions, stating that while challenges exist, they have been addressed through internal processes.
A key issue raised by the PSA was the postponement of the college’s graduation ceremony. The union’s provincial manager Mlungisi Ndlovu said that the delay indicated poor planning and communication.
“This lack of transparency is both unacceptable and damaging, leaving students and their families in distress and financial difficulty. Many students had made substantial investments in travel, attire, and accommodation for graduation, with some coming from as far as Dubai. Their hopes for celebrating a significant academic milestone have been dashed without any justification from the college,” said Ndlovu.
Msimang explained that the event was rescheduled due to logistical challenges, such as venue availability, safety regulations, and the need to accommodate more graduates. Originally considered for September 2024, the ceremony has now been moved to April 2025.
“The well-being of students and the integrity of our academic programs are our top priorities,” Msimang emphasised.
“We have engaged in thorough planning and have been transparent with all stakeholders involved.”
Addressing the PSA’s criticism of the high number of acting appointments within the college, Msimang acknowledged the delays in filling permanent leadership positions but attributed them to broader hiring freezes and administrative processes within the public sector.
“The acting personnel have performed their duties with competence and professionalism,” she said.
“There is no governance crisis, as implied by the PSA. The college remains fully functional, and efforts are ongoing to appoint permanent senior and middle management.”
Msimang also pointed out that the college council and its sub-committees have strengthened governance and leadership in recent months.
The PSA’s allegations of financial mismanagement were also rejected. Coastal KZN TVET College, Msimang noted, undergoes regular audits, and any issues identified are being actively addressed. An audit action plan is in place, targeting inefficiencies and strengthening financial controls.
“We take financial accountability very seriously, and the college is committed to improving its processes,” Msimang stated.
The PSA’s call for ministerial intervention was described as premature and based on “unverified information”. Msimang stressed that the college is working closely with the College Council and both regional and national authorities to resolve its challenges.
“While we acknowledge the difficulties, the PSA’s portrayal of the situation is exaggerated,” Msimang concluded.
The management of Coastal KZN TVET College remains hopeful that through continued dialogue and engagement, the current challenges will be overcome and the college will continue to strengthen its academic and operational performance.
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Daily News