University of Limpopo SRC Criticizes NSFAS for Delayed Payments. University of Limpopo SRC Criticizes NSFAS for Delayed Payments. Close to 100,000 students from five universities nationwide are grappling with delayed payments, with the University of Limpopo’s Student Representative Council (SRC) taking a stand against the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for its perceived lack of urgency in addressing the issue.
Impact on Students
The delay in payments has left thousands of students in a precarious situation. At Limpopo University, the SRC has stepped in by providing essential food packs to affected students, given the uncertainty surrounding when the overdue payments will be processed.
SRC President’s Critique
Khutso Mamabolo, president of the Limpopo University SRC, expressed frustration with NSFAS, emphasizing a significant deficiency in urgency. Mamabolo highlighted the disconnect between promises made by the funding scheme and the actual implementation of solutions, necessitating the SRC’s physical presence in Cape Town to engage with NSFAS representatives.
“We have a serious problem of promises without action. The SRC has to take a flight to Cape Town to meet these people to live up to their commitments. We’ve had numerous meetings and tried to call them several times and sometimes we’re able to reach them and sometimes not.”
Student Struggles at the University of Venda
The repercussions of delayed payments extend beyond Limpopo University. Makatane Nayene, a Bachelor of Science student at the University of Venda, shed light on the challenging circumstances students face, particularly during exam periods.
“If you hear me shaking, it’s because of the hunger. Now you just eat by luck. When you meet comrades in the streets, you follow them hoping they are going to eat.”
Conclusion
The testimonies from both SRC leaders and students underscore the urgent need for NSFAS to address and expedite the processing of student allowances to mitigate the severe impact on academic pursuits and well-being.
