Higher Education Deputy Minister Nobuhle Nkabane has announced several resolutions following discussions between the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and the South African Technical Vocational Education and Training Student Association (SATVETSA). The meeting, held at Mpumalanga University, aimed to address long-standing issues affecting students in the TVET college sector.
Persistent Challenges in the TVET Sector
South Africa’s TVET colleges have been plagued by financial uncertainty, administrative failures, and governance issues. Frustrated students, represented by SATVETSA, recently warned the DHET that campuses could face shutdowns if their concerns were not addressed.
Key Agreements Reached
Minister Nkabane confirmed several resolutions to address student grievances. One of the major decisions is ensuring parity between TVET and university living allowances. Additionally, all outstanding 2024 student allowances and accommodation fees will be processed by 25 February 2025, with 2025 allowances disbursed after registration data is received.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Appeals Committee is expected to finalise all outstanding appeals by 28 February 2025.
The Minister also assured students that the mop-up process for unresolved results will be completed by 26 February, with Umalusi’s approval anticipated by 28 February. To further address concerns about assessments, she plans to meet with examination officials.
Student Concerns Over NSFAS and Funding Delays
SATVETSA has expressed concerns over the defunding of thousands of students due to delayed academic results. While the DHET reported that results for only two subjects were outstanding, the student association argues that this information is inaccurate.
Further frustrations arose when TVET students were excluded from the NSFAS allowance payment run on 7 February, while university students received their payments. Additionally, landlords accommodating NSFAS-funded students remain unpaid, putting students at risk of eviction and exploitation.
Allegations of Mismanagement and Corruption
The student body has accused DHET and NSFAS officials of incompetence, political favouritism, and corruption in accrediting private student accommodation. These grievances led SATVETSA to issue a 48-hour ultimatum to Minister Nkabane, demanding urgent intervention to prevent student protests.
SATVETSA Gains Representation on the NSFAS Board
One key outcome of the Mpumalanga meeting is that SATVETSA will nominate a representative for the TVET sector on the NSFAS Board. However, this decision has been met with opposition from the South African Union of Students (SAUS), which argues that the current board composition violates the NSFAS Act of 1999, which mandates student representation.
