DA leader and Minister of Agriculture has developed a reputation as a controversial figure, as many politicians often do. He is currently making headlines after it was revealed that he will be pursuing his higher education via UNISA.
The minister’s education, or lack thereof has been a point of emphasis for his opposition and critics, as they often question the minister’s line of thinking as well as his reasoning capacity. They often highlight the importance and benefits of formalised higher education for a person with the DA leader’s stature.
Currently holding a matric qualification, John Steenhuisen has heeded the call of several South Africans and has chosen to give education another shot by pursuing courses in management, governance, and public policy. This comes after he enrolled for a Bachelor of Arts in Politics and Law at the same institution.
The Minister of Agriculture, Hon. John Steenhuisen, visited Prof. Puleng @LenkaBula, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of South Africa, on Thursday, 31 October 2024. Steenhuisen is making a return to study with Unisa. pic.twitter.com/72dkUjN4LF
— Unisa (@unisa) October 31, 2024
Although one would assume the DA leader’s critics would happily accept the news, conversely, the situation has given rise to more questions instead. Some users are concerned with whether the minister followed the same processes as normal students, or was instead given preferential treatment due to his position. They highlight the fact that the closing date for applications has well passed therefore begging the question whether the minister even applied or not.
Mara UNISA closing date has passed. Anyway you get study at University without Matric Prior Learning what what alllows it
— Mmanape (Serogole)?? (@SerogoleManape) October 31, 2024
Other users raised the minister’s marks as a concern and whether his APS score meets the minimum requirements to pursue his chosen degree.
Did he apply?? What’s his APS??
— XUFFLER ? (@XUFFLER) October 31, 2024
