NSFAS News

Financial Aid Hosted the 2025 NSFAS Disability Roadshow For Inclusive Financial Support

Published

3 weeks ago

May 2, 2025

Financial Aid Hosted the 2025 NSFAS Disability Roadshow For Inclusive Financial Support. In a significant stride towards fostering inclusive education, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) recently organized the 2025 NSFAS Disability Roadshow. This initiative aimed to enlighten students with disabilities about the financial aid opportunities available through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).

NSFAS Disability Funding

NSFAS offers comprehensive support to students with disabilities, ensuring they have equal access to higher education. The funding encompasses various allowances tailored to meet the unique needs of these students:

Tuition and Registration Fees: Full coverage for approved courses at public universities and TVET colleges.
Accommodation: Up to R69,633 per annum for catered residences in metropolitan areas.
Living Allowance: R20,800 annually for non-catered accommodations.
Learning Materials: R6,240 per year to cover books and other educational resources.
Assistive Devices: A once-off allowance of up to R54,080 for devices aiding in learning and mobility.
Human Support: An annual provision of R52,000 for services like sign language interpreters, scribes, or personal carers.
Transport: An additional R8,190 per year for students requiring specialized transportation.
Personal Care: A yearly allowance of R3,167 to assist with personal care needs.

These provisions are designed to address the diverse requirements of students with disabilities, ensuring they can pursue their academic goals without undue financial strain.

Application Process for NSFAS Disability Funding

To access these benefits, students must undergo a specific application process:

Medical Documentation: Obtain a detailed medical report from a registered health professional confirming the nature and permanence of the disability.
Annexure Submission: Complete and submit the NSFAS Disability Annexure Form, available on the NSFAS website.
Institutional Verification: Submit the completed form and medical report to the university’s Financial Aid Office and Disability Unit for verification.
NSFAS Approval: The documents are then forwarded to NSFAS for final approval and processing of the funding package.

It’s crucial to note that funding is contingent upon meeting all eligibility criteria and the successful completion of the application process.

Highlights from the 2025 Roadshow

The 2025 NSFAS Disability Roadshow at DUT served as an informative platform, bringing together students, university officials, and NSFAS representatives. Key discussions centered around the application process, eligibility criteria, and the range of support services available.

Absolom Manashe, Financial Aid Unit Manager at DUT, emphasized the university’s commitment to supporting over 23,000 students with appropriate academic assistance. He highlighted the importance of understanding the responsibilities that come with NSFAS funding and the collaborative efforts between NSFAS and the institution to facilitate seamless access to benefits.

Nomalizo Sixholo from the NSFAS Disability Unit clarified that the scheme currently supports only permanent disabilities, defined as impairments lasting 12 months or more. She stressed the necessity of submitting comprehensive medical documentation to qualify for the disability funding package.

Thabo Sikhakhane, Disability Rights Unit Admin Assistant, outlined the process for applying for human support and assistive devices, reiterating the importance of accurate documentation and timely submissions.

Financial Aid Counsellor Zandile Ngubelanga addressed academic eligibility, reminding students that maintaining a pass rate of 60% or higher is essential to continue receiving NSFAS support.

DUT Commitment to Inclusivity

DUT proactive approach in hosting the NSFAS Disability Roadshow underscores its dedication to creating an inclusive academic environment. By facilitating direct engagement between students and financial aid representatives, the university ensures that students with disabilities are well-informed and equipped to navigate the funding landscape.

Conclusion

The 2025 NSFAS Disability Roadshow at DUT marks a significant step towards inclusive education in South Africa. By providing comprehensive financial support and fostering awareness, NSFAS and DUT collaboratively pave the way for students with disabilities to achieve their academic aspirations.