Nsfas CEO Andile Nongogo Placed on Special Leave Amidst Corruption Allegations and Investigations.The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has taken a significant step by placing its current CEO, Andile Nongogo, on special leave as corruption allegations cast a shadow over his leadership. These concerns have arisen due to Nongogo’s past involvement in overseeing the operations of the Services Sector Education and Training Authority (SSETA), prompting an investigation into potential fraudulent and corrupt activities.
NSFAS Board Initiates Probe into Corruption Allegations Against CEO Andile Nongogo
In response to mounting corruption allegations, the NSFAS Board has initiated an investigation into the conduct of its Chief Executive Officer, Andile Nongogo. These allegations specifically relate to Nongogo’s prior role at Services SETA (SSETA), raising concerns about the integrity of the bidding process for direct payment allowances issued by NSFAS.
In an official statement released by NSFAS, the Board acknowledges that although the allegations primarily pertain to activities at another organization, they are taking the matter extremely seriously. The investigation is intended to ascertain the accuracy of these allegations and is not an implicit declaration of guilt against the CEO.
Upholding Public Trust and Transformation: NSFAS’s Commitment
Managing a substantial budget of nearly 50 billion rands, NSFAS plays a vital role in supporting financially disadvantaged students, contributing to skill development and economic growth. The NSFAS Board, led by Chair Ernest Khosa, emphasizes the importance of public trust in executing this mission. They underline their dedication to transparency, transformation, and effective governance within NSFAS.
CEO Andile Nongogo Responds to Corruption Allegations
In a recent press briefing, Andile Nongogo maintained his innocence in light of the allegations lodged against him. While he expressed his reluctance to delve into the details during a NSFAS briefing, he did emphasize that the Services SETA consistently received clean and unqualified audits during his tenure. Nongogo lamented the timing of the questions regarding his past work, pointing out that his leadership at SSETA was distinct from his current role at NSFAS.
OUTA’s Perspective: Suspension and Disciplinary Action Urged
Wayne Duvenage, CEO of the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA), advocates for a more decisive approach. Duvenage contends that NSFAS should have suspended Nongogo rather than placing him on special leave. Furthermore, Duvenage believes that NSFAS must expedite their investigation and take appropriate disciplinary measures.
Criminal Complaints and Irregularities Unveiled by OUTA
In June 2023, OUTA lodged a criminal complaint of corruption against Nongogo, a former SSETA colleague, and two Service SETA service providers. These complaints revolve around the alleged inflation of a specific tender awarded to Five Star on August 22, 2016. The accusations highlight a staggering over-inflation of the bid by 8,000% or at least R292,000 for the branding of a tender box. OUTA’s investigation delves into a pattern of irregularities within the contract award process, casting doubt on Nongogo’s involvement.
As the investigation unfolds, the future of Nongogo’s leadership at NSFAS remains uncertain, with the allegations of corruption casting a cloud of doubt over the institution’s commitment to integrity and serving disadvantaged students.