NSFAS Should Extended University Registration Deadlines

NSFAS Should Extended University Registration Deadlines. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is advocating for universities to extend their registration deadlines amidst delays in funding decisions, impacting numerous students across South Africa. The scheme is in discussions with Universities South Africa (Usaf) to facilitate this extension, recognizing the challenges faced by students due to outstanding funding decisions.

Addressing Operational and Policy Matters

The NSFAS board convened recently to deliberate on a range of operational and policy-related issues. Among the key points discussed was the disbursement of allowances amounting to over R3 billion to institutions by March. Acting board chairperson, Professor Lourens Van Staden, disclosed that R2.8 billion had already been disbursed to universities in January, with additional tranche payments anticipated in April 2024.

Funding Disbursement Details

The upfront payment covers one month of student accommodation and book allowances, with the latter calculated at half of the total cost. For Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, an amount of R580,150,950 was disbursed as tuition upfront in January 2024. Furthermore, an additional R1 billion has been allocated for three months’ worth of allowances based on registration from January to March.

Application Statistics And Challenges

Out of 1,936,330 applications received, 1,000,389 were provisionally funded, while 395,265 were pending evaluation. Notably, 80,111 applications were withdrawn by students, and 124,918 applications were rejected by NSFAS. The introduction of a new loan scheme attracted 22,954 applications, of which only 139 were provisionally funded.

Engagement With Universities And Concerns

Recognizing the impact of delays on funding decisions, NSFAS is actively engaging with Usaf to urge institutions to extend registration periods. Moreover, NSFAS expressed concern over the instability in certain institutions such as Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), and Buffalo City TVET College due to challenges in student accommodation.

Commitment to Address Challenges

Despite challenges, NSFAS remains committed to addressing accommodation issues at CPUT and other affected institutions. The entity is dedicated to ensuring accessible, safe, and conducive student accommodation. Additionally, efforts are underway to accredit more beds to meet student housing needs.

Institutional Response And Placement Efforts

CPUT spokesperson, Lauren Kansley, emphasized the university’s ongoing efforts to place students, despite disruptions caused by certain student leaders. The university is actively working to resolve accommodation challenges and streamline the placement process, with over 500 applicants accommodated over the weekend.

Conclusion

NSFAS proactive engagement with universities underscores its commitment to supporting students during the registration process. By addressing funding delays and accommodation challenges, the aim is to ensure equitable access to education for all eligible students across South Africa.