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TRUE TO HIS WORD, BHEKI GAMA BACK!

By SITHEMBILE HLATSHWAYO | 2025-01-28

Principal Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Education and Training Bheki Gama has officially returned to the office.

Gama stated that he was ready for work following a six-month special leave. The leave commenced in July 2024 and was announced by Minister of Education and Training, Owen Nxumalo.

During Gama's absence, Under Secretary (US) Naniki Mnisi acted in his position. Gama reported to work yesterday at around 8:30 am.

Speaking to this publication, the PS confirmed that he was back at work but would be retiring in approximately nine months, around October 28. Gama expressed hope that they would work well with the team in office during the remaining months.

He mentioned that his health had greatly improved and he was feeling much better, adding that he believed his worries would dissipate.

When asked what was troubling him, Gama stated that it was his illness as he wanted to be completely healed. Gama indicated that he hoped to see the Secretary to Cabinet, Victor Nxumalo, with whom he had requested an appointment this week.

“When I have seen him (Nxumalo), I will take it from there, and if there is no improvement, he will provide direction on what will happen next,” the PS said.

The PS stated that he would report to the secretary to Cabinet if there were no improvements in his health; however, for now, everything was fine.

Nxumalo confirmed that the PS was back in the office and requested that all enquiries directed to the office should be addressed to him.

Nxumalo added that it would be up to the PS if he required any assistance to delegate. The secretary to Cabinet further noted that the PS would be in the office until October.
Mnisi stated that Gama was officially introduced by the minister.

Mnisi indicated that the PS expressed his willingness to receive assistance from the team, especially from her as she had been acting.

He further requested that she hold fort whenever he was not around and report on what had been accomplished during his absence.

“This is a handover week, and gradually, we will meet with the PS to provide updates on what has been happening during his absence and where we stand,” Mnisi said.

She mentioned that they needed to conclude payments, among other tasks, and procure what is essential for the reopening of schools.

She noted that the PS had also shown positivity in not wanting any delays that would negatively impact government and the education of the Liswati child. Mnisi pledged her full support to the office, which was part of her responsibilities, and affirmed that she served under the PS.

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