SRC Raises Concerns Over NSFAS Delayed Payments

SRC Raises Concerns Over NSFAS Delayed Payments. The University of Fort Hare’s Student Representative Council (SRC) recently addressed Parliament to highlight the effects of delayed payments by the National Student Aid Financial Scheme (NSFAS) on students. This issue has led to various challenges and disruptions within the university. Check your application status now.

Challenges with NSFAS Direct Payments

NSFAS introduced direct payments, partnering with controversial banking service providers like Norraco, in an effort to improve accountability and fund transfers to students. However, this new system has faced numerous challenges, leading to protests by students from different institutions.

University of Fort Hare’s SRC Concerns

SRC President Siphokazi Mbalo expressed skepticism about the direct payment approach, citing a lack of trust in the process and uncertainty about its implementation. The majority of the university’s students are NSFAS beneficiaries, making timely allowances crucial to avoid food insecurity and chaos on campus.

Actions Taken by SRC

In response to delayed payments, the SRC had to take various measures to assist affected students. These included moving classes from physical to online formats and organizing a financial aid drive in collaboration with NSFAS and Norraco.

Impact on Students

The delays in allowances have not only affected students’ academic performance but also led to some being evicted by landlords due to rent non-payment.

Unisa SRC’s Frustrations

The Unisa SRC also expressed frustration over delayed tuition funding, which results in late or non-registration for students. They raised concerns about the inaccessibility of NSFAS offices and administrative chaos within the financial aid system.

Committee’s Response

The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education took note of these allegations and vowed to address them with NSFAS during its upcoming appearance before the committee.

NSFAS Response

NSFAS responded by dispelling “fake reports” about deferred payments and assured beneficiaries that allowances would be paid on September 1, following a technical glitch. They apologized for the inconvenience caused and pledged to avoid such delays in the future.