NSFAS Funding Fiasco Sparks Student Suffering, Demands DA. The Democratic Alliance (DA) has highlighted the dire consequences of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) failing to distribute funds, causing immense mental stress for affected students. Check Your application status now.
Payment Pledge Unfulfilled
Following a technical glitch within NSFAS last week, the organization promised to disburse funds to students by Friday. However, as of now, these payments have not materialized, according to Liam Jacobs, the federal leader of the DA Students’ Organisation. Jacobs expressed his concerns, stating, “It has come to our attention that students, who are beneficiaries of NSFAS, have not received their allowances due to NSFAS’ administrative lapses.” He emphasized that this situation has inflicted significant mental stress and financial hardship upon students, labeling it as absolutely unacceptable.
Call for Urgent Ministerial Intervention
In response to these pressing issues, Jacobs implored Minister Blade Nzimande to urgently intervene and address the matter to relieve students’ suffering. He emphasized the need for concrete action rather than empty promises.
Support for Ongoing Investigation
Jacobs expressed support for the ongoing investigation into potential transgressions in the tender process concerning service providers responsible for disbursing funds into student accounts. NSFAS CEO Andile Nongogo had been placed on special leave last month amid allegations of questionable financial dealings related to student fund disbursement.
Commitment to Transparent Governance
In August, the NSFAS board confirmed the appointment of Werksmans Attorneys to investigate allegations against Nongogo and to review NSFAS procurement systems and processes. NSFAS board chairperson Ernest Khosa reiterated the board’s commitment to ensuring transparent governance in a statement on August 18.