Higher education minister apologises for late Nsfas payments, addresses appeals

The Minister of Higher Education, Dr. Nobuhle Pamela Nkabane, on Sunday, released a statement addressing crucial issues affecting students who rely on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (Nsfas).

Nkabane’s address focused primarily on the delayed disbursement of Tvet allowances and provided updates on the Nsfas appeals process.

Late Nsfas Tvet allowances finally reach students

Nsfas has issued an apology for the delayed payment of Tvet student allowances that were originally scheduled for 25 April.

According to the minister, the delay was caused by “a system glitch related to the size of the batch files.”

The payments were subsequently processed on 26 April and reflected in student accounts by 27 April.

“We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused by the delays in allowances – delayed payments are unacceptable,” stated Nkabane.

“We recognise the impact of these delays as students depend entirely on their allowances for living expenses.”

The minister also highlighted that approximately 800 students at a “specific institution” continue to face challenges with their fund transfers.

Nsfas has committed to resolving these outstanding issues by Wednesday.

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Outstanding 2024 payments being addressed

The minister confirmed that Nsfas remains committed to settling all outstanding amounts from 2024, including payments owed to both students and accommodation providers.

Nkabane added that a detailed communication outlining the plan for these outstanding payments will be released by Wednesday.

“Access to education is not just a privilege; it is a fundamental right that facilitates personal and national growth,” she emphasised in her statement.

Nsfas appeals process update

According to Nkabane, progress has been made in addressing appeals submitted for 2025, with the Nsfas Appeals and Tribunals Committee currently reviewing outcomes to ensure consistency and proper application of policies.

Students are encouraged to regularly check their accounts for any additional documentation requirements related to their appeals.

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Resolution of qualification code discrepancies

Nkabane shared that a breakthrough has been achieved in resolving issues related to qualification code mismatches that had prevented fund disbursement to eligible students.

These discrepancies primarily affected students enrolled in two specific National Certificate (Vocational) programs.

The minister reported that 80% of the results were released to examination centers on 2 April.

She added that additional evidence is being gathered by the Department of Higher Education and Training, which will be submitted to Umalusi by 5 May for National Certificate (Vocational) Levels 2 to 4.

“Subject to Umalusi’s approval, we anticipate the release of results on 9 May 9 and 12 May,” Nkabane stated.

With these issues resolved, affected students should receive their Nsfas funding without further delay.

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