Students Protest NSFAS Payment Delays

Students Protest NSFAS Payment Delays. Students at Thekwini TVET College in Asherville recently took to the streets to protest the delay in receiving their National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) allowances. The demonstration, which occurred on Thursday, highlighted the mounting frustrations among students facing financial challenges due to the non-payment of their funding.

Allegations of Violence

During the protest, tensions escalated as students alleged that a fellow protester had been shot in the face with a rubber bullet by a security officer. However, these claims remain unconfirmed as attempts to reach the police for verification were unsuccessful.

Principal’s Perspective

Nkosinathi Mchunu, the principal of Thekwini TVET College, expressed concern over the violent turn of events during the protest. He mentioned instances where students exhibited aggression towards college staff members. According to Mchunu, the students’ actions included attacks on police officers, staff, and security personnel, resulting in injuries to two staff members who are currently hospitalized.

Student Grievances

Zamokuhle Mlambo, one of the protesting students, shed light on the underlying issues prompting the demonstration. Mlambo cited concerns regarding NSFAS funding and the college’s service provider, eZaga. Many students across various Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges nationwide have reported delays in receiving their NSFAS allowances, adding to the frustration and uncertainty among the student body.

Challenges with NSFAS Funding

The students’ grievances extend to the lack of clarity surrounding NSFAS funding. Returning students, who were previously funded by NSFAS, are now facing rejections without clear explanations. This discrepancy has fueled suspicions among students regarding the allocation and distribution of NSFAS resources.

Doubts Regarding Residences

Bantu Faku, representing the EFF Student Command, highlighted another issue concerning student residences. Some students allege intimidation from the college administration, claiming that their residences are not accredited by NSFAS, despite evidence suggesting otherwise. Such discrepancies raise concerns about the transparency and fairness of the institution’s practices.

Administrative Response

In response to the students’ grievances, Principal Mchunu asserted that the college has not received any formal complaints regarding delayed NSFAS allowances.

He emphasized the college’s limited influence over the service provider, eZaga, which handles the disbursement of funds on behalf of NSFAS. Mchunu encouraged students to report any payment delays to college management for further communication with NSFAS to expedite the process.

Seeking Resolution

As tensions persist between students and college administration over NSFAS payment delays and related grievances, there is a growing call for transparency, accountability, and swift resolution to ensure that students receive the financial support they urgently need to pursue their education.

Conclusion

The protest at Thekwini TVET College underscores the broader challenges facing students reliant on NSFAS funding. As stakeholders work to address these issues, it is imperative to prioritize the well-being and academic success of students by ensuring timely and transparent distribution of financial aid.