Students Slam NSFAS For Allowance Payment Failures. Students heavily depend on NSFAS allowances to meet basic needs while pursuing their studies. Unfortunately, a significant number of students at North West University find themselves in a dire situation due to the non-disbursement of their allowances.
SAUS Condemns NSFAS Failure
The South African Union of Students (SAUS) considers the failure of NSFAS to disburse monthly allowances as a catastrophic situation. NSFAS is a vital financial aid provider for students in public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges in South Africa.
North West University
Reports reveal that over a thousand students at North-West University did not receive their allowances for November 2023, leaving them in a precarious position. SAUS Spokesperson Asive Dlanjwa expresses concern over the lack of definitive responses from NSFAS and highlights that students have faced delayed payments since May.
Severe Impact on Students
Dlanjwa emphasizes the severe impact of payment delays, estimating that at least 80,000 students would have undergone year-end examinations without the means to afford essential items such as food and toiletries. The situation has resulted in a disastrous end-of-year examination period for NSFAS beneficiaries.
Distressing Academic Year Conclusion
The academic year concludes on a distressing note for NSFAS beneficiaries, creating additional challenges for students who have already faced financial hardships.
NWU Response to Starving Students
Christopher Motabogo, NWU spokesperson, reveals that the institution implemented a meal-a-day program to assist starving students. This initiative, made possible through donations from various sponsors, has provided nutritious meals to approximately 2,000 students across all three campuses.
Lack of Official Response
Despite the challenges faced by students, NWU management states that they are yet to receive an official response from NSFAS explaining the reasons for the late disbursement of allowances.
Ongoing Struggles for Students
As of the latest update, close to 1,300 North West students are still awaiting allowances for November 2024, and the expected December 2023 allowances, scheduled for the 1st of December, were not dispersed.
2024 NSFAS Applications
In November 2023, NSFAS opened applications for funding for the 2024 academic year. The application window will remain open until 31 January 2024. As students grapple with current challenges, the need for a timely and effective response from NSFAS becomes increasingly urgent for the well-being and academic success of South African students.
Conclusion
NSFAS allowances has created significant hardships for students, impacting their ability to meet basic needs during crucial examination periods. Urgent intervention and transparent communication from NSFAS are imperative to address the ongoing challenges and ensure the well-being of South African students.
