| Mr Yusuf Cassim was appointed as the Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training on 30 June 2026.
Mr Cassim has served as a public representative since 2014, first as a Member of the National Assembly and then in the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature. At 24, he became the youngest Member of Parliament in South African history at the time. He has served on numerous committees, including the Higher Education and Training Portfolio Committee, where he fought for the interests of students, universities, TVET colleges, and the effective functioning of SETAs.
Mr Cassim has a strong background in higher education advocacy. While studying for a BCom in Accounting at Nelson Mandela University, he founded the Democratic Alliance Students Organisation (DASO) on campus in 2009 and played a pivotal role in its recognition and growth. As SRC President in 2012, he led significant student-centred initiatives, including improved campus transport services, the establishment of a prayer facility, and the creation of a student bailout fund.
Throughout his public service career, he has continued to champion greater access to quality higher education, support for TVET colleges, and meaningful skills development.
Mr Cassim currently serves as the DA Eastern Cape Provincial Chairperson and is distinguished as a former leader of both the Democratic Alliance Youth and DASO.
He also serves as Constituency Leader for the Port Elizabeth Northern Areas, focusing on addressing community challenges and on opportunities for young people.
His leadership and dedication to public service have been evident across his various roles, with a particular emphasis on mentoring young leaders and advancing national priorities in post-school education and training.
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