Prioritizing Equal Support For Universities And TVET Colleges

Prioritizing Equal Support For Universities And TVET Colleges. The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Doctor Nobuhle Nkabane, recently presented the department’s budget vote in a mini plenary of the National Assembly. Emphasizing the critical role of higher education in nurturing a skilled workforce across diverse professions and disciplines, Dr. Nkabane outlined the department’s plans and challenges.

Budget Allocation for 2024/2025

In the 2024/2025 financial year, the Department of Higher Education and Training received a budget of R137.5 billion, marking an annual average increase of 4.8% from the R130.5 billion allocated in the 2023/24 financial year. This budget is aimed at enhancing the education sector and addressing key issues.

Addressing Student Funding Challenges

Dr. Nkabane vowed to tackle the ongoing student funding and payment challenges within the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). She highlighted that NSFAS, which disbursed R21.4 million in 1991, now supports 800,000 students at a cost of R54 billion. The Minister reaffirmed her commitment to eradicating corruption and maladministration within NSFAS, and emphasized the development of a funding model to support students in the “missing middle” category.

The Importance of Equal Support for Universities and TVET Colleges

During the budget vote debate, various stakeholders highlighted the need for equal support for both universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.

Artisans Production Goal

Mr. Tebogo Letsie, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training, stated that the department aims to produce and certify 26,500 artisans by March 2025. This effort aligns with the National Development Plan’s goal of producing 30,000 artisans annually by 2030 through TVET colleges. Mr. Letsie endorsed the budget, recognizing its importance in fostering economic growth by nurturing a skilled workforce.

NSFAS and Infrastructure Concerns

Over the medium term, 1.5 million university students and one million TVET students from poor and working-class backgrounds are expected to receive bursaries through NSFAS. Mr. Letsie urged NSFAS to expedite funding decisions and allowance distributions and applauded the Department for completing 10 TVET college campuses. However, concerns were raised about the reduction in infrastructure grants, with members emphasizing that these cuts should not affect the bursary scheme.

Calls for Equal Treatment

Ms. Fasiha Hassan, representing the African National Congress, called for equal treatment of students in both the university and TVET sectors. Mr. Mandla Shikwambana from the Economic Freedom Fighters supported the budget, advocating for education accessibility, an overhaul of the NSFAS board, allowances for late applications and registration, and free driving lessons for students.

Addressing Corruption and Governance Issues

Ms. Desiree van der Walt from the Democratic Alliance highlighted the impact of corruption and poor governance at NSFAS, which has driven many students to unregistered private colleges, resulting in unrecognized qualifications and contributing to high youth unemployment rates. She argued for fundamental changes to the funding model, including a tier system for loans and grants, focusing on substantial financial support for low-income students.

Safety and Gender-Based Violence

Other members emphasized the need to prioritize safety and address the ongoing issue of gender-based violence (GBV) in educational institutions. They stressed that equal attention must be given to both universities and TVET colleges to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment.

Conclusion

The budget allocation for the Department of Higher Education and Training aims to address critical issues within the sector, including student funding challenges, infrastructure concerns, and the need for equal support for universities and TVET colleges. As stakeholders continue to advocate for these changes, the focus remains on creating a skilled workforce that can contribute to the country’s economic growth and development.

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