Suspended MUT executives disciplinary issues remain undisclosed
THE Council of Mangosuthu University of Technology has suspended the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the uMlazi-anchored institution Prof Nokuthula Sibiya with immediate effect pending disciplinary processes.
Image: TUMI Pakkies Independent Newspapers
A WEEK after three senior Mangosuthu University of Technology executives were suspended, the nature of the disciplinary issues that led to the suspensions has still not been revealed.
The university's council announced last week that the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Nokuthula Sibiya, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Resources and Planning, Dr Bhekabantu Ntshangase, and the Senior Director for Operations, Dr Buhlebakhe Msomi, were all placed on immediate suspension.
Council Chairperson Dr Mosidi Makgae said the suspensions were pending the outcome of a disciplinary inquiry.
"The Council did not arrive at this decision lightly. In reaching its conclusion, it carefully considered the importance of maintaining stability at MUT during this period," said Makgae .
He did not disclose the nature of the disciplinary issues.
Makgae acknowledged that suspending three high-ranking executives simultaneously could create uncertainty and instability within the institution, particularly as universities rely heavily on consistent leadership to oversee academic, administrative and operational functions.
"To mitigate (a) potential leadership vacuum and to ensure institutional stability," the Council resolved to immediately appoint an Acting Vice-Chancellor. After consultations with the Senate and the Institutional Forum, the Council appointed Dr Anette Mienie, currently Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement (RIE), to take over the reins.
Tebogo Letsie, chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training, said the committee does not necessarily interfere in labour matters between employees and their employers as this is the responsibility of Councils in terms of the legislative framework.
"However, the committee will allow Council to deal with the matter and possibly engage with the university in the new year.
"The committee does not have information on the nature of the suspension. This is something that we will establish when we come back. However, we hope that the minister will engage the university council on its decision to suspend the executives," he said.
Letsie said the committee had received a submission from a complainant about the interference of the Council Chairperson in the operational appointments (at Grade P5 level), and factionalism within the Council, and other allegations.
At the time of publication, the university had not responded to questions regarding the disciplinary action.