NSFAS called to address payment delays
'We cannot have students waiting for meals and book allowances for longer than five months'
THE Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training has called for the improvement of National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) systems to ensure students receive funding on time.
‘We are concerned about the challenges that had been raised over a period of time with stakeholders resulting from the central applications process and the piloting of the student-centred model.
‘The system is designed to benefit students, and we expect no less. The delays in payments being made to institutions should be dealt with expeditiously; we cannot have students waiting for meal and book allowances for longer than five months,’ said committee chairperson Connie September.
ALSO READ: A solution to the student fees funding crisis at hand
The committee was briefed by NSFAS, Higher Education Minister Naledi Pandor, and Universities SA on challenges regarding funding following the introduction of the fee-free dispensation for poor students.
They urged NSFAS to kick-start the process of redesigning the student-centred funding and to ensure challenges are fixed before the start of 2019.
‘These challenges are not insurmountable, they just need a collective effort. The committee welcomes the willingness of the stakeholders to collectively support a process to ensure that students are not disadvantaged in furthering their much-needed education,’ said September.
The committee added that they will invite to Parliament colleges and universities that are experiencing challenges with the disbursements of funds to students.
‘But also we will upon our return to Parliament ask that the department, NSFAS and all other stakeholders account to Parliament on the disbursements of funds to students,’ said September.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
