NSFAS Failures Force Free State University Students into Desperation

NSFAS Failures Force Free State University Students into Desperation. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), a programme designed to support underprivileged students, is facing increasing criticism for its mismanagement, leaving many students at the University of the Free State (UFS) in dire conditions. Reports indicate that some female students, unable to secure funding, are forced to stay with their boyfriends or engage in sex work to survive.

Struggles of Free State University Students

The Build A Better South Africa (Babsa) organisation has raised serious concerns about the deteriorating conditions faced by students due to NSFAS funding delays. According to Babsa deputy president, Tsepo Mhlongo, students are left stranded without accommodation and basic necessities.

“Three learners told us that they were in a difficult situation as they had to cohabit with their boyfriends since they had no other place to stay. Essentially, NSFAS is failing to fulfil its duty, forcing students to make tough choices just to survive. Meanwhile, their parents believe they are being supported through NSFAS funding,” Mhlongo explained.

The financial crisis has left many students regretting their decision to leave home in pursuit of higher education, as they now struggle to afford basic essentials like food and accommodation.

Mental Health Implications of NSFAS Delays

Beyond financial struggles, many students are battling depression and suicidal thoughts due to their harsh living conditions. “These kids are suffering, and some are even contemplating taking their own lives. If education was truly a priority, then why are our future leaders being subjected to such humiliation and abuse?” asked Mhlongo.

Hustling to Survive: Students Turn to Prostitution

One student from Harrismith, pursuing Quantity Surveying and Construction Management, revealed to Sunday World that she has resorted to sex work to afford food and a place to stay.

“If my parents knew what I have to do to survive, they would be devastated. But I have no choice—I need to hustle to make ends meet,” she shared.

Another student from Welkom, currently in her second year of a Bachelor of Science degree, echoed similar sentiments. “If nothing changes, we will either die or end up in mental health institutions. If our parents ever found out that we have become promiscuous just to survive, it would break their hearts. We need the government to step in and help us access the NSFAS funding we applied for.”

Mismanagement of NSFAS Funds: A Threat to Education

Mhlongo has called for urgent intervention, stating that NSFAS must cut administration costs and redirect funds towards students who desperately need financial support.

“The ongoing mismanagement of NSFAS funds is a direct attack on the future of South African youth. The poor communication between NSFAS and higher learning institutions is frustrating students, leaving them in limbo. The cancellation of second-semester funding after students were approved for the first semester is unacceptable,” he said.

Students Sleeping in the Streets Due to NSFAS Failures

Mhlongo highlighted another alarming consequence of NSFAS inefficiency—students being left homeless. “Some students are now sleeping in the streets due to NSFAS’ inability to execute its responsibilities properly. The incompetence of NSFAS officials is putting young people at risk, and immediate action is required to address these issues.”

During his visit to UFS in Bloemfontein, Mhlongo spoke to affected students who expressed their anger and frustration. “They told me that NSFAS is not taking their situation seriously. Many are begging friends for shelter and food while waiting for their stipends. This is unacceptable.”

Call for Transparency and Accountability in NSFAS

Baba has made it clear that NSFAS needs a complete overhaul to ensure fair and transparent student funding. “There should be no cadre deployment, and politically connected individuals should not be running NSFAS at the expense of struggling students. NSFAS must stop approving student funding and later cancel it without valid reasons. It exists to support students, not to fail them. As Babsa, we stand firm in defending the right to accessible, fair, and well-managed education funding,” Mhlongo concluded.

Conclusion

The crisis at UFS highlights broader systemic issues within NSFAS and South Africa’s education system. Urgent intervention is needed to prevent further harm to students who are simply trying to build a better future. Without immediate reforms, thousands more students may find themselves in similar distressing situations, compromising the country’s future workforce and leadership.