University vice-chancellors reveal campus challenges, NSFAS confirms non-payment concerns

Vice-chancellors have informed Universities South Africa that the non-payment of National Student Financial Aid Scheme funds could threaten stability on campus, but things could improve from May as varsities hope to continue paying student allowances to maintain stability.

“Some institutions have had to step in by providing meals to students affected by non-payment of allowances, with obvious financial implications on their budgets. So, this is a major concern to vice-chancellors,” she said.after a decision was taken by Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande on 11 April to dissolve the National Student Financial Aid Scheme and place it under administration at a time when many beneficiaries face non-payment issues.

On USAf platforms, she said vice-chancellors talk in general terms about students affected negatively by the non-payment of allowances. “Some had received inadequate amounts. Reconciling the data to differentiate those already paid from the rest, and to feed that data to universities in time, was going to be tricky for NSFAS.”“Regarding May onwards, there is no major issue – except that universities wish to continue paying the allowances for a minimum of the next six months, ideally for the rest of the year, for continuing stability of the sector,” she said.

In part, Nongogo was found to have actively participated in the presentation to the Bid Evaluation Committee of proposals by service providers and appointed a technical adviser to assist the BEC.On almost all campuses, Ndzoyiya said students have expressed their dissatisfaction with the process. He said they were worried about the outstanding transfers because there were students who wrote their first-semester tests without food.

“The institution will also disburse student allowances from May to July 2024 as requested by NSFAS,” Radebe said. “VUT provided office space for the fintech company to resolve challenges of students in accessing their funds.” She said VUT tuition and residences are partially paid to date and this impacts the university operations and cash flow.

“The university took the initiative to issue letters to property owners’ service providers advising them that NSFAS is in the process of effecting payment to the property owners. Therefore, they must not terminate their service.”She said the institution also held numerous meetings with the property owners, SRC and NSFAS officials on the challenges to ensure the smooth running of the institution.

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