NEWS
President Ramaphosa Appoints Pakistani Man, Yusuf Cassim as South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Higher Education
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Yusuf Cassim as the country’s new Deputy Minister of Higher Education, entrusting the seasoned lawmaker with a key role in advancing South Africa’s tertiary education and skills development agenda.
Cassim, a prominent politician from the Democratic Alliance (DA), has built a reputation as a passionate advocate for education and youth development. Before his latest appointment, he served as a Member of Parliament and was the party’s parliamentary representative on higher education matters.
A respected figure within the Democratic Alliance, Cassim previously served as the Federal Leader of the DA’s Student Organisation (DASO). He also held office as the interim Leader of the DA Youth after succeeding Mbali Ntuli following her resignation from the position.
His leadership journey began during his student days when he was elected President of the Student Representative Council at Nelson Mandela University in 2012, where he gained recognition for his commitment to student welfare and educational advancement.
Born in Uitenhage in the Eastern Cape, Cassim distinguished himself academically by graduating as the top student in his matriculating class in 2008. He is of the Islamic faith and has remained actively involved in public service throughout his political career.
His appointment marks another significant milestone in his career, transitioning from his role as a Member of Parliament to the executive arm of government, where he is expected to contribute to policies aimed at strengthening South Africa’s higher education sector and expanding opportunities for students across the country.