South Africa's Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, has declared the government's commitment to resolving administrative challenges within the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
NSFAS plays a critical role by providing comprehensive financial support to deserving students enrolled in accredited universities and TVET colleges. This support includes bursaries and student loans that cover tuition, registration fees, and living expenses like food, accommodation, and learning materials.
Unfortunately, recent allowance payment delays have caused significant stress for students, with some even facing eviction from their accommodations. In response to these administrative hurdles, the NSFAS leadership has undergone significant restructuring.
Minister of Higher Education, Blade Nzimande, took decisive action by dismissing the NSFAS board. Freeman Nomvalo was appointed as the new Administrator to oversee NSFAS management and administration for the next 12 months. Additionally, Professor Lourens van Staden assumed the role of acting board chair following Ernest Khosa's resignation.
Deputy President Mashatile emphasised the government's commitment to working alongside students to ensure NSFAS functions efficiently and effectively. The goal is to ensure no deserving student is left behind in their pursuit of higher education.
Together with the youth we will ensure that NSFAS is administered efficiently, effective and that no one is left behind.
Mashatile acknowledged the vital role NSFAS plays in transforming the lives of underprivileged students. He highlighted that NSFAS bursaries are critical for student success, with over 70% of university students and more than 90% of TVET college students relying on this financial aid.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme remains a critical vehicle that supports students from poor and working-class families, with over 70% of university students and more than 90% of TVET college students benefiting from NSFAS bursaries.
The Deputy President reassured students that efforts are underway to address inefficiencies within NSFAS.
Together with the youth, we will ensure that NSFAS is administered efficiently, effectively, and that no one is left behind.
In addition to this, Mashatile also addressed the broader importance of youth participation in South Africa's development, as outlined in the National Development Plan (NDP). He emphasised the necessity of including young people in discussions that shape their present and future, underlining that their active participation is crucial for achieving the country's growth targets.
