Deputy Minister Requests NSFAS Fix Late Payments At TVET Colleges

Deputy Minister Requests NSFAS Fix Late Payments At TVET Colleges

Deputy Minister Requests NSFAS Fix Late Payments At TVET Colleges. The Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr. Mimmy Gondwe, has called on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to urgently address late payments at TVET colleges. This appeal follows increasing complaints from students regarding delays in receiving their allowances, which severely impact their academic performance and overall well-being.

Challenges in Processing Student Information

During her visit to Goldfields TVET College in Welkom, Dr. Gondwe identified critical challenges affecting students. One of the most pressing concerns was the inefficient capturing of students’ information, which leads to unnecessary delays in financial aid disbursement. This issue was highlighted as a major obstacle preventing students from accessing their allowances on time.

The visit was part of the department’s ongoing efforts to oversee and monitor educational institutions, ensuring they receive the necessary support to enhance service delivery.

NSFAS Urged to Improve Efficiency

Dr. Gondwe emphasized the urgency of addressing these ongoing problems, stating:

“What came across very sharply during the visit was the issues around NSFAS. NSFAS needs to get its act together to ensure that students’ allowances are paid on time and that there are no delays. These delays pose serious impediments for learners, affecting their ability to concentrate. Students need money for food, hygiene products, and overall well-being and dignity.”

Call to Release Withheld Results

Another major concern raised was the withholding of students’ results, which negatively affects their ability to secure employment. Dr. Gondwe stressed the importance of ensuring that students can access their results without unnecessary bureaucratic delays:

“Another issue that came across was the issue of pending results. We need to assist in ensuring that results are released so that learners who need to find jobs can do so. Additionally, there is the issue of historic debt, which remains a significant burden. The college reported having millions in historic debt that it cannot afford to write off.”

Communication Gap Between NSFAS and Students

A key issue raised by Goldfields TVET College SRC President, Princess Thoabala, was the lack of communication between NSFAS and students. She pointed out that the agency does not effectively inform students about issues affecting funding and allowance payments.

“Some of the challenges are that NSFAS is not strictly forward with us. They do not communicate the challenges they are facing in their offices so that we, as student representatives, can inform our peers and urge patience. The frustration comes from NSFAS not responding to our emails or calls. Their communication channels are always unresponsive,” said Thoabala.

Oversight Visits to Other Institutions

As part of her oversight duties, Dr. Gondwe also visited the Central University of Technology’s Welkom Campus. Her itinerary includes visits to institutions in the North West and the Western Cape, ensuring a comprehensive review of the challenges faced by students across different regions.

Conclusion

The growing concerns over NSFAS late payments at TVET colleges highlight the need for urgent reforms in the administration and distribution of student financial aid. Dr. Gondwe’s call for improved efficiency and transparency is a crucial step toward ensuring that students receive their allowances on time, can access their academic results without hindrance, and do not suffer due to poor communication from NSFAS.

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