- Committee seeks stronger oversight following E3.4 million tuition dispute
BY MBONO MDLULI
LOBAMBA – The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has welcomed steps being taken to improve accountability and transparency in tertiary education financing following a dispute involving more than E3.4 million in tuition fees at the Southern African Nazarene University (SANU).
The matter emerged from an Auditor General’s report which found that tuition fees amounting to E3 465 440 were disputed by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security because the billed amounts did not correspond with recognised fee structures.
While the findings raised concerns about fee management processes, the PAC has focused on ensuring that corrective measures already initiated are strengthened to prevent a recurrence.
During hearings, officials informed the committee that a Commission of Enquiry established at the university had uncovered cases of overcharging students. The investigation prompted Government to tighten controls governing fee increases for public enterprise institutions.
One of the major reforms introduced requires fee increases to receive approval through the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Public Enterprises before they can be implemented.
PAC members described this as an important safeguard that will protect students, parents and sponsoring institutions from unexpected or unjustified fee adjustments.
The committee also noted that the matter demonstrates the importance of regular audits and parliamentary oversight in strengthening governance across public institutions.
By identifying the anomaly and ensuring corrective action, the committee believes taxpayers and students will benefit from greater financial transparency.
PAC has now called for a report on the outcome of the Commission of Enquiry to be submitted shortly after adoption of the report by Parliament.
Committee members said the findings will help determine whether further reforms are required within the institution.
The case is being viewed as an opportunity to improve accountability mechanisms within higher education institutions rather than merely focusing on the shortcomings identified.
PAC members expressed confidence that the measures already introduced will contribute towards restoring confidence in university fee administration while promoting fairness and transparency.
The committee emphasised that educational institutions play a critical role in national development and therefore require strong governance systems that protect both students and public funds.
Through its recommendations, PAC hopes to ensure that tuition charges remain transparent, predictable and properly regulated.
The committee believes that improved oversight will ultimately strengthen public trust in higher education institutions while ensuring that resources intended for education are managed responsibly.
