The draft Student Debt Relief Bill seeks to create a Student Debt Relief Fund, which would help qualifying students settle outstanding tuition fees. Under the proposed legislation, students who meet academic requirements would be allowed to graduate and receive their qualifications, regardless of unpaid fees.
According to the Bill, any student who meets specific criteria may apply to the Fund for assistance in clearing their debt to a higher education institution. This initiative aims to remove financial barriers preventing students from obtaining their certificates.
Student Debt Remains a Major Challenge
South African institutions of higher learning are collectively owed an estimated R17 billion by students. This growing debt burden primarily affects graduates who are unable to access their certificates due to unpaid fees, making it difficult for them to secure employment.
MP Lonzi emphasised the urgent need to address this issue, highlighting that students face two difficult scenarios: either starting their careers burdened by lifelong debt or remaining unemployed because they cannot provide proof of their qualifications.
Qualification Access Regardless of Outstanding Fees
The draft Bill also stipulates that all students who have fulfilled academic requirements must be granted their qualifications, even if they still owe tuition fees. This provision seeks to prevent financial constraints from hindering graduates' career prospects.
Public Input Invited
Interested parties have 30 days to submit written comments on the proposed Bill. Submissions can be sent to the Speaker of the National Assembly via mail, email, or delivered in person at Parliament in Cape Town.
