Minister of Higher Education (South Africa)

South Africa
Minister of Higher Education
Incumbent
Buti Manamela
since 21 July 2025
Department of Higher Education and Training
StyleThe Honourable
AppointerPresident of South Africa
Inaugural holderBlade Nzimande
Formation11 May 2009
Deputy
SalaryR2,211,937
WebsiteDepartment of Higher Education and Training

The Minister of Higher Education is the minister in the Cabinet of South Africa with responsibility for higher education in South Africa. The post was created as the Minister of Higher Education and Training in May 2009. It was called the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology between May 2019 and June 2024.

The role is currently held by African National Congress member Buti Manamela, who was sworn in on 21 July 2025.

The position complements the Minister of Basic Education, who leads the Department of Basic Education, and is therefore responsible for primary and secondary education in South Africa.