NWU Student Sells Laptop for R1000 To Buy Bus Ticket After Disappointing NSFAS. A distressing situation unfolds at North West University (NWU) as frustrated students grapple with delayed payments from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). This dire circumstance has led to a desperate measure by a 23-year-old student who had to sell his laptop at a significant loss to afford a bus ticket home for Christmas.
NWU Student Selling Laptop for Bus Ticket
The student, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication, expected an allowance owed for July but found himself still unpaid by November. Faced with financial desperation and no assistance from home, he reluctantly sold his R7,000 laptop for a mere R1,000 to cover the R800 bus ticket to Mt Frere.
NWU Delayed Allowances Compound Student Woes
In a further blow to NWU students, many are still awaiting their November allowance of R1,650 from NSFAS. The delay has left these students in a predicament, unable to travel home for the holidays and struggling to meet basic needs.
NWU Second Student Struggle | Hope for Christmas Dashed
Another NWU student from Gauteng shares her disappointment, expressing the hope to use her allowance for Christmas festivities with her family. However, the delayed funds have left her stranded, unable to afford the R220 needed for travel to Tembisa.
NWU University Response | Bus Tickets Offered on a Case-by-Case Basis
NWU acknowledges the financial hardships faced by its students and reveals that the university is utilizing its funds to provide bus tickets for those affected. The university spokesperson, Louis Jacobs, emphasizes a case-by-case approach in handling the situation.
NSFAS Silent Stance | Lack of Clarity Adds to Students’ Woes
Despite the efforts to resolve the payment issues, NSFAS remains silent, with no comments provided by spokesperson Ishmael Mnisi. The university spokesperson highlights the lack of reconciliation reports from NSFAS, leaving students in the dark about the reasons behind the non-payment of their allowances.
Conclusion
As the financial struggles of NWU students persist, there is an urgent need for NSFAS to address and rectify the payment delays. The impact on students’ academic pursuits and personal well-being underscores the importance of timely financial support. A swift resolution is crucial to ensure that students can enjoy the festive season with their families and continue their studies without unnecessary obstacles.
