The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) offers comprehensive bursaries and loans to deserving students enrolled in approved courses at universities and TVET colleges. These funds cover tuition fees, registration costs, and essential allowances for food, accommodation, and study materials.
Over a million South African students depend on NSFAS for their education. However, recent challenges with the scheme's administration have raised concerns about its effectiveness.
In response to these issues, the former Higher Education Minister, Blade Nzimande, dissolved the NSFAS board in April 2024 and appointed an administrator to oversee the scheme. Freeman Nomvalo was tasked with addressing the challenges and ensuring the smooth operation of NSFAS.
Earlier this year in April, my predecessor, Blade Nzimande, dissolved the NSFAS board. I have since issued a notice for the nomination of new board members, and the application period closed late last month.
While the administration period was initially set for 12 months, with the possibility of extension, the government has decided to reinstate the board earlier than planned. NSFAS is looking for new board members to oversee its vital role in providing financial assistance to students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The Minister of Higher Education, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, has called on qualified individuals to apply for NSFAS board positions. Applications have now closed, and the selection process is underway.
We have now begun evaluating applications as part of the government's broader efforts to professionalise public service. We are seeking board members with a minimum of a master’s degree, relevant expertise, skills, competencies, and experience. Their induction will be prioritised, given the critical responsibilities they will assume.
"One key issue the new board must address is the organisation's capacity deficiencies, especially in the call centre and executive roles. Currently, NSFAS is operating without a CEO, CFO, and chief audit expert—positions essential for maintaining effective operations," said the Minister.
The new board will need to ensure these roles are filled quickly and that management implements measures to respond efficiently to inquiries.
The new board will face significant challenges in addressing NSFAS's capacity deficiencies and ensuring that the scheme can effectively support close to a million students.
"I am confident that with the new board and executive team in place, we will see significant improvements. The administrator will soon provide an update on the steps taken to improve service delivery in line with the board’s terms of reference."
Minister Nkabane is confident that the appointment of a capable board will help NSFAS deliver on its mission of providing accessible and equitable education to students across South Africa.
