Manamela had previously served as Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, and her appointment was met with great enthusiasm and optimism. Her extensive experience in the education sector and her passion for youth development made her the perfect candidate for the role.
Born and raised in Soweto, Manamela’s journey in education began at a young age. She excelled in her studies and went on to obtain a degree in Education from the University of Johannesburg. Her passion for education and her drive to make a difference in the lives of young people led her to pursue a career in the education sector.
Manamela’s first role in government was as a Member of Parliament in 2009, where she served on the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education. During her time in Parliament, she was known for her dedication and commitment to improving the education system in South Africa. Her contributions to various education policies and legislation were highly regarded and played a crucial role in shaping the education landscape in the country.
In 2014, Manamela was appointed as the Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training. This was a significant milestone in her career, and she was determined to make a positive impact in this new role. Her deep understanding of the challenges facing the higher education sector and her innovative ideas made her a valuable asset to the ministry.
During her tenure as Deputy Minister, Manamela spearheaded various initiatives aimed at improving access to higher education for disadvantaged students. She played a pivotal role in the implementation of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), which provided financial assistance to thousands of students who would have otherwise been unable to afford tertiary education.
Manamela also championed the expansion of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, providing students with alternative pathways to acquiring skills and qualifications. Her efforts in this area have contributed significantly to addressing the skills shortage in the country and promoting economic growth.
One of Manamela’s most significant achievements as Deputy Minister was the launch of the Decade of the Artisan campaign. This initiative aimed to promote and elevate the status of artisans in South Africa and encourage more young people to pursue careers in the technical and vocational fields. Under her leadership, the campaign gained widespread support and has since seen an increase in the number of students enrolling in artisan courses.
Manamela’s passion for youth development was evident in all her work, and she was a strong advocate for the empowerment of young people. She was a firm believer in the power of education to transform lives and was committed to ensuring that all young South Africans had access to quality education.
Her dedication and hard work did not go unnoticed, and she received numerous accolades and recognition for her contributions to the education sector. In 2017, she was awarded the Women in Education Award by the Department of Higher Education and Training, in recognition of her outstanding leadership and commitment to advancing education in South Africa.
After serving as Deputy Minister for four years, Manamela’s term came to an end in 2018. However, her impact and legacy continue to be felt in the education sector. Her tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to improving education in South Africa have left a lasting impression and have set a high standard for future leaders in the field.
In conclusion, Manamela’s tenure as Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training was marked by her passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to improving education in South Africa. Her contributions have played a significant role in shaping the education landscape and have had a positive impact on the lives of countless young people. We can only hope that her successor will continue to build on her legacy and strive towards creating a brighter future for all South Africans through education.
