NSFAS Bursary Applications Over One Million

NSFAS Bursary Applications Over One Million. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is gearing up for the 2024 Post School Education and Training (PSET) academic year, with Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, revealing key updates in a media briefing held on January 23. The minister highlighted the provisional funding of 657,703 South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) recipients and emphasized the importance of applicants submitting a consent form to comply with legislative requirements.

Verification Process and Consent Form

Minister Nzimande urged all NSFAS applicants to complete and submit a consent form for the verification of information from third parties. This step is crucial to confirming the employment status and income levels of the parents, guardians, or spouses of applicants. Failure to submit a complete, accurate, and duly signed NSFAS consent form may result in disqualification from NSFAS funding due to the inability to assess financial eligibility.

Improved Communication Channels

To enhance communication with students, NSFAS has introduced new platforms, including a downloadable mobile app, a dedicated WhatsApp line (078 519 8006), and a USSD code (12067327). These tools allow applicants to easily access updates on their applications.

Accommodation Initiatives

Minister Nzimande called on higher learning institutions to submit lists of NSFAS-funded students who have registered for accommodation through the scheme’s portal. NSFAS is piloting the accreditation of private student accommodation in 17 universities and 23 Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges for the 2024 academic year. The program aims to ensure accessible, decent, safe, and academically conducive student accommodation.

Accreditation Progress

NSFAS is actively accrediting accommodation providers, with 25,989 out of 38,938 registered beds in TVET colleges and 42,965 out of 67,337 registered beds in universities already accredited. The accreditation process is ongoing, and the list is updated daily.

Training and Support

From January 8, 2024, NSFAS has been conducting weekly training sessions for accommodation providers and students on the application and registration processes. This initiative is set to conclude in February 2024, ensuring that all stakeholders are well-informed and prepared.

Conclusion

As the 2024 academic year kicks off, NSFAS is not only providing crucial financial support but also implementing measures to streamline the application process and enhance student accommodation. With a focus on accessibility, safety, and academic suitability, NSFAS is committed to ensuring that no student is left without the necessary support during this academic journey.