The Minister of Higher Education has appointed a new board for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Higher Education has expressed confidence that the newly appointed board will stabilise the government bursary scheme, which has faced significant challenges.
Portfolio Committee Chairperson Teboho Letsie praised the board's composition, highlighting the members' advanced degrees and extensive professional experience.
We are pleased that NSFAS will now be led by individuals with the necessary expertise to navigate the financial and administrative complexities of the scheme
The committee believes the board's expertise will improve the scheme's administration.
Challenges Facing the New Board
The new board is tasked with addressing critical issues that have undermined NSFAS, including financial mismanagement and allowance payment disruptions. These issues were central to the termination of the previous board.
This is a critical step towards restoring stability and ensuring that NSFAS fulfils its mandate of supporting students in their pursuit of higher education,
The committee emphasised the importance of stability for students. "Students deserve an institution that supports them financially, allowing them to focus on their studies rather than grappling with accommodation and funding challenges."
The committee also stressed the need for the board to appoint competent managers and staff, including a new executive management team comprising a Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and Chief Information Officer.
We trust that the new board will prioritise the needs of students and ensure that NSFAS becomes a beacon of hope rather than a source of academic disruptions,
Student Union Condemns Appointment as Unlawful
However, the South African Union of Students (SAUS) has strongly criticised the appointment, alleging it violates the NSFAS Act of 1999, which mandates student representation on the board. SAUS described the move as "unlawful" and demanded transparency regarding the selection process.
SAUS demands immediate accountability: we demand transparency regarding the composition of this illegitimate Board and the exposure of those complicit in its undemocratic formation.
"The Minister’s unlawful actions reek of cronyism and a contemptuous disregard for student governance," SAUS stated.
