New Higher Education Minister Urged To Solve NSFAS Challenges

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South Africa's higher education sector has a new leader at the helm, with Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane taking over as Minister of Higher Education and Training. This appointment is being met with optimism by student unions, who are eager to see long-standing issues surrounding NSFAS addressed.


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In a recent cabinet shakeup, Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane takes the helm at the Department of Higher Education and Training. Previously the Deputy Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Nkabane faces a number of pressing issues, including rising tuition fees, student debt, and challenges with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).

Nkabane replaces Blade Nzimande, who served as Higher Education Minister from 2019 to 2024. Student organizations, like the South African Union of Students (SAUS), welcomed Nkabane's appointment, citing her experience in academia and government.  

They praised her intellectual background and strategic approach, which they believe will be valuable assets in tackling departmental challenges.

Her vast contributions to government can be characterised by a profound depth of knowledge and excellence. Dr. Nkabane has consistently demonstrated an unparalleled dedication to both her academic pursuits and her role as a leader in government and the community in general.

Focus on Student Support and NSFAS Reform

SAUS pinpointed key areas for improvement, including better coordination between departments and universities. They highlighted resistance from some university officials towards initiatives that support underprivileged students.

A critical point of focus for Nkabane, according to SAUS, is reforming NSFAS to better serve students from poor and working-class backgrounds. This includes expanding its reach to the "missing middle" – students who fall outside the existing NSFAS bursary criteria but struggle to afford higher education costs.

NSFAS has been one of the most just and critical interventions to alleviate the poverty and suffering of our people, particularly the poor and working class, who in the main are the black majority

While Nzimande launched the "missing middle" student loan programme as part of a broader funding model, SAUS emphasizes the need for further action. They believe Dr. Nkabane's success hinges on decisive leadership and a strong commitment to supporting underprivileged students.  

SAUS expressed confidence in her abilities and looks forward to collaborating with her on these critical issues.

"Among some of the most critical tasks which we believe that Dr. Nobuhle is equal to, is the fixing of the scheme to ensure that not only can it carry on to service the poor and working class with sheer excellence and dedication, but that it broadens its reach to the missing middle, doing so for the next 30 years and beyond," said the Union.

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