The resignation of Sam Zungu, the Deputy Director-General responsible for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) at the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), has sent ripples through South Africa's post-school education landscape. Announced just days ago, this move comes at a pivotal time as the sector grapples with curriculum reforms, funding pressures, and enrollment targets ahead of the 2026 academic year. Zungu's departure underscores ongoing leadership instability within the DHET, raising questions about continuity in steering TVET colleges toward greater relevance in addressing youth unemployment.

TVET colleges play a crucial role in South Africa's skills development ecosystem, offering practical, occupationally directed programs designed to equip learners with job-ready competencies. With over 50 public TVET institutions nationwide, they serve approximately 527,000 students, focusing on fields like engineering, business studies, and hospitality. However, persistent challenges such as infrastructure deficits and lecturer shortages have hampered progress.

Details of Zungu's Resignation and Tenure

Sam Zungu submitted his resignation letter on May 7, 2026, addressed to DHET Director-General Dr. Nkosinathi Sishi. In the letter, Zungu described the decision as the result of 'thorough deliberation' and 'carefully considered reflection,' stating it was 'the appropriate course of action at this juncture in my professional career.' He offered to serve a one-month notice period to facilitate a 'comprehensive and orderly handover,' emphasizing his commitment to a seamless transition.

Appointed in 2021 under then-Minister Blade Nzimande, Zungu oversaw key initiatives including oversight visits to colleges, curriculum summits, and responses to student protests. His leadership coincided with efforts to introduce occupational qualifications and phase out legacy National Accredited Technical Education Diploma (NATED) programs at N4-N6 levels by 2026. Zungu frequently engaged with media and stakeholders, moderating panels on green hydrogen skills and addressing accreditation issues.

Broader Context of Instability at DHET

Zungu's exit is not isolated. The DHET has faced a cascade of leadership upheavals, particularly surrounding the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Recently placed under administration by Minister Buti Manamela, NSFAS saw the abrupt resignations of interim chairperson Dr. Mugwena Maluleke and board member Karabo Mohale. Allegations of ministerial interference in the CEO appointment process have fueled perceptions of governance turmoil. These events coincide with preparations for the 2026 academic year, where a 'war room' has been established to monitor readiness across universities, TVETs, and community education centers.

While Zungu cited personal career considerations, the timing amid these crises has sparked speculation about internal pressures. No official DHET response has been issued yet, but Zungu's assurances of minimal disruption highlight the urgency of appointing a successor.

Persistent Challenges Facing TVET Colleges

TVET institutions in South Africa confront multifaceted hurdles that Zungu's successor must tackle. Enrollment has stagnated around 527,000 students, far below the National Development Plan's 2.5 million target by 2030. Key issues include:

• Staffing Shortages: Many colleges operate with lecturer vacancies exceeding 20% in critical trades like electrical engineering and boiler-making.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Aging facilities and incomplete new campuses hinder practical training delivery.
• Funding Constraints: NSFAS delays affect TVET students disproportionately, with R1.4 billion disbursed recently but ongoing probes into irregularities.
• Low Completion Rates: Only about 50% of NATED entrants complete their qualifications, exacerbated by workplace placement shortages.
• Perception Barriers: TVETs are often viewed as a 'second choice' compared to universities.

Recent data from the DHET shows marginal growth in some provinces, like the Northern Cape's 12,699 enrollments in 2024, but national targets remain elusive.

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Curriculum Reforms and the 2026 Transition

A major focus under Zungu's watch was the shift to Occupational Qualifications (OQs), aligning TVET offerings with industry needs. By 2026, NATED N4-N6 programs will be fully phased out, replaced by modernized curricula emphasizing work-integrated learning. This overhaul aims to boost employability but faces resistance due to lecturer retraining needs and industry partnerships.

Minister Manamela has prioritized a dual training model, blending classroom and workplace experience, as announced in the 2026 State of the Nation Address. Oversight visits by Deputy Minister Nomusa Dube-Ncube to colleges like Northlink TVET underscore readiness efforts. Yet, staff and funding gaps threaten implementation, as highlighted in parliamentary briefings.

Implications for Stakeholders and Students

For TVET students—often from disadvantaged backgrounds—the leadership vacuum could delay NSFAS payouts and program approvals. College principals, through bodies like the South African College Principals Organisation (SACPO), have voiced concerns over governance. Industry partners worry about skills pipelines in high-demand sectors like renewable energy and manufacturing.

Universities South Africa (USAf) notes TVET's complementary role, with combined post-school enrollment at over 1.6 million. A stable DHET is essential to prevent spillover effects on higher education.

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Expert Perspectives and Calls for Action

While direct reactions to Zungu's resignation are limited, sector experts emphasize urgency. Dr. Hlengani Mathebula, newly appointed NSFAS administrator, focuses on recovery amid R1.7 billion in probed funds. Parliamentary committees have grilled DHET on TVET performance, demanding timelines for key appointments.

Stakeholders advocate for:

• Swift successor appointment with industry experience.
• Increased funding for infrastructure via public-private partnerships.
• Enhanced NSFAS integration for TVET-specific allowances.
• Marketing campaigns to elevate TVET prestige.

For deeper insights into DHET's strategic plan, visit the official DHET document.

TVET's Economic Role and Future Outlook

TVETs are vital for South Africa's economy, targeting 80% youth employability through artisan training. With unemployment at 32.9%, successful reforms could create thousands of jobs in construction, automotive, and green sectors. The 2026 'war room' monitors enrollment, funding, and infrastructure to avert disruptions.

Optimism persists: Recent NSFAS disbursements of R4.2 billion to institutions signal stabilization. A new DDG could accelerate OQ rollout and placements, positioning TVETs as engines of inclusive growth. As Minister Manamela stated, 'TVET colleges remain at the center of our strategy to transform the post-school system.'

Professionals seeking roles in South African colleges can find listings on AcademicJobs Higher Ed Jobs.

Photo by Sibusiso Mbatha on Unsplash

Path Forward: Stability and Innovation

The TVET leadership shake-up presents both challenge and opportunity. With Zungu's handover underway, the DHET must prioritize transparency to rebuild trust. Long-term, investing in digital infrastructure and lecturer development will modernize the sector. South Africa's youth—over 700,000 funded via NSFAS for 2026—depend on it.

Stakeholders urge collaborative governance to navigate reforms. A resilient TVET system promises not just skills, but pathways to prosperity.