Nomalungelo Gina

Biography

Hon. Nomalungelo Gina (née Khuluse) is an outstanding leader, a committed public servant, and a passionate champion of education and economic transformation. Born and raised in South Africa, her life journey reflects resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to serving the public. Growing up in the rural village of Ndwedwe in EmaKhuluseni, she faced and overcame significant challenges. As a Black, rural woman with a partial disability, she has defied the odds to achieve remarkable success, serving as an inspiration to many.

Her academic journey began at Inanda Seminary School, where she obtained her National Senior Certificate in 1988. Driven by a passion for education, she pursued a teaching degree at the University of Zululand, which she completed in 1992. She later advanced her studies with a Postgraduate Diploma in Management from the University of the Witwatersrand in 2015. In 2023, she earned a Master’s in Public Management from the University of Venda and is currently pursuing a PhD in Public Administration.

Hon. Gina began her professional career as a teacher, serving diligently in the King Cetshwayo District in KwaZulu-Natal. Her commitment to education and community upliftment led her to become actively involved in the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU), where she held several leadership roles, including Site Steward, KZN North Coast Regional Education Convener, Provincial Executive Committee Member, and Deputy Provincial Chairperson.

Her leadership extended beyond the education sector, and in 2009, she was nominated for deployment to the National Parliament. Throughout her tenure, she has played a pivotal role in shaping national policies, serving on the Higher Education and Training Portfolio Committee, acting as Whip of the Basic Education Portfolio Committee, convening the Social Cluster Committee, and chairing the Basic Education Portfolio Committee.

Recognising her leadership and dedication, President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed Hon. Gina as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition from 2019 to 2024. Her contributions in this role helped to strengthen economic policies, industrial growth, and job creation.

In 2024, she was appointed as Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, where she continues to champion scientific research, technological advancement, and innovation-led development.

Hon. Gina’s political journey began in the late 1980s during her time at Ohlange High School, where she was active in student politics. Before entering full-time politics, she dedicated over 15 years to the education sector as a teacher and was deeply involved in SADTU. She rose through the ranks of the union, serving as a site steward, KZN North Coast Regional Education Convener, and later as Deputy Chairperson of the SADTU Provincial Executive Committee. She was also a Regional Executive Committee member of the ANC and served in the Regional Executive Committee of the Women’s League (WL).

Beyond government, Hon. Gina remains an influential figure in political structures. She currently serves as a Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) member of the African National Congress (ANC) in KwaZulu-Natal and is the Provincial Deputy Chairperson of the South African Communist Party (SACP).

Hon. Gina’s unwavering commitment to education, public service, and societal progress continues to inspire and transform lives. Her remarkable leadership and dedication serve as a beacon of hope for young people, particularly women from disadvantaged backgrounds, as she works towards building a better and more inclusive South Africa.