Convicted NSFAS fraudster Sibongile Mani is no longer Walter Sisulu University convocation treasurer

• WSU booted Sibongile Mani from the executive of the convocation of alumnus.
• It is understood a vetting process disqualified Mani as a result of her theft conviction. 
• The convocation is the component structure which promotes the university's brand.

Less than three weeks after being elected as treasurer by a convocation of Walter Sisulu University (WSU) alumni, convicted NSFAS thief Sibongile Mani has been booted out for failing a vetting process. 

The Eastern Cape office of the convocation elected Mani as its treasurer during an annual general meeting on 11 March - a day before the Eastern Cape government pledged R20 million to WSU, to clear student debts, at the convocation's fundraising gala dinner, which ultimately raised R35 million.

The Eastern Cape government moved to assure the public that it would pay the R20 million to the university, and not to the convocation, which Mani was part of.  

At the same time, when the university was asked for its view about Mani's involvement, it said leadership responsibilities of any of its structures were reserved for qualifying, reputable, clean record, competent and credible candidates with special skills and capabilities that will help take the institution forward.

However, on Thursday, the convocation confirmed that the university's vetting committee resolved to remove Mani. 

READ | The Eastern Cape says it won't hand R20 million to convicted NSFAS fraudster Sibongile Mani

Convocation spokesperson Azola Mzwendaba explained that it was a structure operating within university rules and guidelines - and that the university's leadership played an oversight role in all its component structures. 

He said the names of the whole Eastern Cape committee executive was sent to the university, adding: "Indeed, Ms Mani has not passed vetting process."

Mzwendaba said the convocation was still to be provided reasons by the registrar's office for Mani's removal, but the convocation's understanding was that the university considered the integrity of candidates.

He said the convocation's view was that the university had the right to vet candidates, but it also had an obligation to do so in a manner that was transparent, fair and accountable.

The convocation will meet on Friday morning to deliberate over the removal of Mani and possibly discuss her replacement as well. 

READ | Sibongile Mani sentenced to 5 years' imprisonment for theft of NSFAS funds

In March 2022, the East London Regional Court sentenced Mani to five years' imprisonment for theft relating to R14 million accidentally credited into her account by NSFAS in 2017.

She is appealing the verdict.

In just 73 days, she blew more than R800 000 of the money before the error was noticed and her student card was blocked.  

Mani could not be reached for comment. Her response will be added if received. 

WSU spokesperson Yonela Tukwayo declined to answer our questions.