Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

1-minute read
04 January 2024 | 12:48 CAT

Image: Polity.org

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme is accused of failing to pay more than 1,000 North West University students their November 2023 allowance.

NSFAS has now confirmed payouts by the 15th of January.

Students’ organisation SASCO President Vezinhlanhla Simelane says NSFAS must put the needs of its beneficiaries first.

According to Simelane, this is not the first time NSFAS’ ability to pay student allowances has been scrutinised.

“It is not the first time NSFAS has committed to paying their standing fees for 2023. Before closing the year, NSFAS promised that they would ensure payment before the year ends,” says Simelane.

He said efforts to resolve the matter have so far failed.

Simelane says they are disappointed that thousands of beneficiaries are forced to write their exams on empty stomachs at various institutions, including the University of North West, the University of Venda, Durban University of Technology, and the University of Cape Town.

The student leader says the situation is dire, and a solution needs to be found soon.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Muallimah Annisa Essack.