First Day of Lectures Disrupted as Over 600 Uct Students March on Campus
UCT Vice-Chancellor Mosa Moshabela promises to address issues raised by protesting students around financial exclusion
NSFAS
Free State Students Return to Class After Protests Pause
But SRC warns protests could start again if the university’s management fails to follow through on its commitments
Call for calm amid accommodation situation at higher learning institutions
Call for calm amid accommodation situation at higher learning institutions
The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education has raised concern over the ongoing accommodation crisis at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and the Nelson Mandela University (NMU).
This comes as hundreds of students have been left stranded and forced to sleep wherever they find shelter.
In a statement on Tuesday, Higher Education Committee Chairperson, Tebogo Letsie, said the scenes at CPUT and NMU were deeply troubling, particularly following the committee’s recent oversight visits to institutions in the North West and Gauteng provinces to assess the state of readiness for the 2025 academic year.
“While institutions assured the committee of their preparedness, the current crisis underscores the urgent need for greater scrutiny of these assurances. The systemic failure to address recurring student accommodation shortages reflects a broader institutional and governmental neglect of student welfare,” Letsie said.
The chairperson has also condemned the involvement of private security forces at CPUT, which resulted in violent clashes and injuries to students.
“The use of excessive force is unacceptable. Security personnel must prioritise de-escalation and protection, not repression. Students advocating for their right to education deserve empathy, not violence,” Letsie said.
National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Administrator, Freeman Nomvalo, said the scheme has reached out to accommodation providers who have not received payment and has established payment arrangements with them.
Last week, the NSFAS called on accommodation providers, or landlords, not to demand a deposit or top-up payment from NSFAS-funded students.
This after some landlords asked NSFAS-funded students to pay a deposit or top-up payment in order to get access to the approved private accommodation.
According to the Standardised Fixed-Term Lease Agreement, the rent will be paid monthly to the accommodation provider (lessor) by NSFAS, on behalf of the lessee (NSFAS funded student), in accordance with the NSFAS terms and conditions for private accommodation providers’ participation on the student accommodation portal.
The agreement states that the lessor may not require or permit the lessee to pay a deposit, top-up payments, or any other forms of payment to the lessor, or any other person in connection with this agreement, including payment of rent, while awaiting payment from NSFAS.
The lessor shall have no recourse against the lessee for any default in the payment of rent by NSFAS.
The NSFAS terms and conditions for private accommodation providers’ participation on the student accommodation portal also states that: “Where the NSFAS-funded student is defunded due to an incorrect decision by NSFAS, the student will not be liable for payment of any arrear rent to the accommodation provider, up until the date of being defunded.” – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 02/12/2025 - 09:32
11 views
Students Disrupt Classes Amid Housing Crisis
NSFAS blamed for student accommodation challenges
Accommodation providers urged to stop demanding deposit from NSFAS funded students
Accommodation providers urged to stop demanding deposit from NSFAS funded students
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has urged landlords not to demand a deposit or top-up payment from NSFAS-funded students.
This comes after NSFAS received reports about some accommodation providers who require NSFAS-funded students to pay a deposit or top-up payment in order to get access to the approved private accommodation.
“NSFAS reminds accommodation providers of the compulsory conditions, as provided by the Standardised Fixed-Term Lease Agreement between the private accommodation providers and NSFAS funded students,” NSFAS said in a statement on Thursday.
The Standardised Fixed-Term Lease Agreement states that the rent will be paid monthly to the accommodation provider (lessor) by NSFAS, on behalf of the lessee (NSFAS funded student), in accordance with the NSFAS terms and conditions for private accommodation providers’ participation on the student accommodation portal.
“The lessor may not require or permit the lessee to pay a deposit, top-up payments, or any other forms of payment to the lessor, or any other person in connection with this agreement, including payment of rent, while awaiting payment from NSFAS. The lessor shall have no recourse against the lessee for any default in the payment of rent by NSFAS,” the agreement reads.
The NSFAS terms and conditions for private accommodation providers’ participation on the student accommodation portal also states that: “Where the NSFAS-funded student is defunded due to an incorrect decision by NSFAS, the student will not be liable for payment of any arrear rent to the accommodation provider, up until the date of being defunded.”
NSFAS explained that where the NSFAS-funded student chooses to continue occupying the leased premises, notwithstanding being defunded by NSFAS, the student will be liable for payment of rent to the lessor from the date of being defunded.
“Where the student is defunded by NSFAS due to a misrepresentation by the lessee/guardian at any stage, the student must immediately vacate the leased property; and will be liable for payment of all rent due to the accommodation provider.
“Where the student moves, accommodation providers without the prior approval of NSFAS, NSFAS may elect not to pay any rental to the new accommodation provider, and any such rental payments will be for the student own account,” the scheme said.
The scheme emphasised that any dispute arising between the parties regarding the interpretation or implementation of the agreement, must be dealt with in accordance with any dispute resolution procedure determined by NSFAS for this purpose. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 02/07/2025 - 10:35
233 views
Students Protest Their “Dire” Accommodation Outside SONA
CPUT students have been sleeping outside and in hallways
Learners encouraged to explore TVET colleges
Learners encouraged to explore TVET colleges
Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, has encouraged learners to consider the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges as a valuable and viable alternative for advancing their careers.
The Deputy Minister was speaking during an oversight visit to the post school education and training (PSET) institutions in the Western Cape this week.
Gondwe described the TVET colleges as crucial for job creation and youth skills development in the country.
The Deputy Minister visited the West Coast College Vredenburg Campus, and the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) Bellville Campus in Cape Town.
Gondwe’s visits aimed at assessing the state of readiness of higher education institutions across the country, ahead of the 2025 academic year.
During the visit at West Coast College, she encouraged learners to take pride in acquiring artisan skills as they offer great entrepreneurship opportunities.
“I am very encouraged by what I’m seeing at TVET colleges, I believe they are the future of this country. TVETs are producing artisans with much needed skills [and] also offer opportunities for learners to acquire future skills, such as robotics, AI [Artificial intelligence], and coding,” Gondwe said.
At the second part of the visit, students at CPUT expressed concerns about student residences and other facilities. The Deputy Minister directed the institution to work with the Student Representative Council (SRC), to speedily resolve the identified issues.
The Deputy Minister’s visit to the Western Cape, follows her recent visit to higher education institutions in the Free State where she visited Goldfields TVET College and the Central University of Technology (CUT), at the Welkom campus.
During the visits, the Deputy Minister has been accompanied by key senior officials from Higher Education and Training, and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
The Deputy Minister’s dedicated Help Desk has also formed part of the delegation, assisting with all higher education related queries on each visit.
The issue of funding and administrative challenges faced by the NSFAS was in the spotlight during the Free State leg of the visits.
“NSFAS needs to get its act together, in order to ensure that student allowances are paid on time with no delays. Delays cause serious challenges for learners; learners need allowances to eat and to buy hygiene products. This is important for their sense of wellbeing and dignity,” Gondwe said.
Gondwe embarked on the state of readiness visits following a plan of action, announced by Higher Education and Training, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane at the special meeting of the Post Education and Training sector held in January 2025, to establish the state of readiness for the 2025 academic year.
The Deputy Minister’s oversight is expected to continue in other provinces, with North West higher education institutions being the next on the list. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 14:56
328 views
President convenes Cabinet Lekgotla
President convenes Cabinet Lekgotla
President Cyril Ramaphosa has convened a Cabinet Lekgotla with leaders from all spheres of government - to review government’s progress on priorities, assess challenges and set the agenda for the seventh administration.
Addressing members of the media on the agenda of the two-day meeting, Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said government was finalising the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) 2024/2029.
The plan proposes three strategic priorities, which include inclusive growth and job creation; reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, as well as building a capable, ethical and developmental State.
“We are focusing on the practical actions that we need to take to make good on the promises that we have made and set practical timeframes so that we can realise the priorities of the MTDP.
“We also received a scene-setting report from National Treasury on the economic outlook and the global outlook -- trends that will inform government planning.
“We are looking at what we want to achieve in terms of reforms on global institutions, in particular the security system of the United Nations and global funding institutions,” the Minister said on Wednesday, on the sidelines of the Cabinet Lekgotla.
Other areas of focus include funding Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) and the “missing middle”, in reference to students whose household income is too high to qualify for National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding, yet too low to afford tertiary education without financial assistance.
The Cabinet Lekgotla is taking place on 29 and 30 January 2025 at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House, in Pretoria.
The outcomes of the meeting will shape government’s policies and programmes that will be announced by the President during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Parliament on Thursday, 6 February 2025, at 19:00.
With the seventh administration being under the Government of National Unity (GNU), which comprises 10 political parties from across the spectrum, Ntshavheni emphasised that the meeting will prioritise the interests of the country.
“We are meeting as the GNU and we are not bringing party political interests. We are going to negotiate and discuss as members of Cabinet and representatives of provinces, which are represented by Premiers.
“We work for the best benefit of our country and not the best benefit of our parties. The engagements are on the level of us being members of the national executive,” Ntshavheni said.
South Africa’s term for the Group of Twenty (G20) presidency also features on the meeting’s agenda.
“As we are preparing to host the G20, we will receive a report on the logistics and the content on government goals for the summit,” the Minister said.
South Africa holds the G20 Presidency from 1 December 2024 to 30 November 2025, under the theme: “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability” .
South Africa's G20 Presidency is the fourth consecutive emerging market Presidency, and it is also the first African Presidency, followed by the admission of the African Union (AU) as the second permanent African member.
The G20 was established to tackle pressing global economic and financial issues. Together, G20 members account for around 85% of global GDP and 75% of international trade.
The G20 comprises 19 countries, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, the United Kingdom and the United States, and two regional bodies, namely the European Union and the African Union.
The grouping plays a critical role in influencing global policy making and fostering global economic stability. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 01/29/2025 - 18:23
128 views
50 bursaries for deserving students
50 bursaries for deserving students
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has announced that government will provide 50 bursaries for deserving students who have been accepted into public institutions of higher learning, including Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.
These bursaries will be offered through the National Skills Fund, which collaborates with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
“The National Skills Fund supports this initiative through the department and aims to bridge the gap in access to education, particularly for the top students we are celebrating today,” Deputy President Mashatile explained.
The country’s second-in-command announced this during his keynote address at the KwaMpumuza 4th Annual Matric Excellence Awards ceremony at Sweetwaters, uMgungundlovu District, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.
The awards ceremony celebrates the academic achievements of the top Matric Class of 2024 from 16 schools within the Mpumuza Traditional Authority.
The Blackburn Sports Ground in Sweetwaters was filled with the Matric Class of 2025, along with 329 primary school learners who received uniforms.
The event honoured high-achieving schools, teachers, and students from 11 schools in the KwaMpumuza area.
“Having a matric certificate means that you have gone through many obstacles since primary school and have worked hard to make the most of your future. You are a great source of pride for your families, schools, and the entire Mpumuza community,” he told those who have passed Grade 12.
He also thanked the educators and parents for their support.
“Your determination and sacrifice are not taken for granted, may you one day, through these children, enjoy the fruits of your labour.
“To those of you who are going to university, remember that you are now in charge of your own life,” he added.
He encouraged those heading to university to do their best to secure a brighter and more prosperous future.
“A university degree or qualification is a treasure that no one can take away from you, and it is a key to many closed doors.
“I encourage you today to dream big dreams. Do not be discouraged by your background, and the challenges that you have gone through. You deserve the best that life has to offer and as a government, we are determined to support you to make your dreams possible.”
Focusing on the current matriculants, he encouraged them to study diligently and resist distractions like peer pressure.
“I urge all of you to stay away from alcohol, drugs, and other harmful behaviours including violence of any form, early entry into sexual behaviours leading to teenage pregnancy, and STDs [sexually transmitted diseases].”
He also took the time to speak to the parents of children who failed and reminded them that every setback is a setup for a stronger comeback.
“Your love and encouragement can make all the difference in helping them find their way forward.
“Whether they pass or not, every learner is part of our shared future, and they all deserve our love, guidance, and unwavering belief in their potential.”
He concluded his speech by referencing former State President Nelson Mandela, who famously stated, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world“. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 01/24/2025 - 14:57
68 views
NSFAS Student Accommodation Déjà VU
As students and landlords suffer again, OUTA calls on the Minister of Higher Education to intervene urgently to prevent student unrest across SA Almost exactly a year ago, OUTA called on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to allow universities and colleges to manage student accommodation “while NSFAS sorts out its student accommodation programmes”. …
NSFAS organises resources for higher learning institutions
NSFAS organises resources for higher learning institutions
While institutions are gearing up to welcome dozens of students to their campuses, both new and returning, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is currently preparing for the deployment of resources to institutions across all provinces.
NSFAS said the resources would include servicing administrators, student accommodation officials, as well as graduate interns.
“This is to ensure a smooth start of the 2025 academic year for our beneficiaries. NSFAS Circular 13 of 2024 sent to institutions on 07 January 2025, advised that as part of our student support plans, we will deploy officials to all institutions for a period of two months, from 13 January 2025 until 07 March 2025,” NSFAS said in a statement.
The scheme said it had concluded a graduate recruitment process and appointed graduate interns.
The interns will be deployed alongside the servicing administrators across different institutions to work with financial aid officials on bursary administration daily.
“The deployment and placement of these resources to institutions is aimed at ensuring that for the 2025 academic year, each institution has a resource tasked with assisting students with queries which need NSFAS’ attention. The recruited graduates are currently undergoing formal training,” the scheme said.
Applicants called to submit supporting documents
Meanwhile, NSFAS has called on students who applied for funding to submit supporting documents after receiving communication from the scheme.
“Applicants have 30 days to submit from the day of receiving communication. Applicants must not wait for the deadline, but should submit now,” NSFAS said.
To submit the requested documents, applicants must log into their myNSFAS portal and upload the documents.
“To track their application status, applicants can add NSFAS on WhatsApp 078 519 8006 or use USSD *120*67327# or via email info@nsfas.org.za,” NSFAS said.
The scheme reiterated that qualifying students must not pay any registration fee to the institutions of higher learning, until the process is complete, but “wait for communication from NSFAS on the final decision”.
NSFAS warned applicants against fraudsters who pretend to be NSFAS officials and urged them to report any suspicious messages or calls to the NSFAS ethics and fraud hotline on 0800 007 396.
For more information on NSFAS, applicants can visit https://my.nsfas.org.za/. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 15:30
245 views
Minister Blade Nzimande on Passing of Professor Sibusiso Mandlenkosi Emmanuel Bengu
The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande has expressed his deep sadness at the news of the passing of Professor Sibusiso Bengu.
“Prof Bengu holds the distinction of leading our iconic university, Fort Hare, into the democratic era as its vice chancellor in the early 1990s, and also served as democratic South Africa's first Minister of Education. In the latter capacity, he played a seminal role in dismantling the apartheid edifice of our country's education sector and helped to usher in a single, coordinated, non-racial, non-sexist education system,” said the Minister Nzimande.
“As part of the Cabinet of President Nelson Mandela, he led the introduction of a number of foundational laws that helped to shape the policy and institutional architecture of South Africa's school and post school sector in the decades following the collapse of the apartheid system. These include the South African Schools Act of 1996 and the policy recommendations of the National Commission on Higher Education that guided government's efforts to reconstruct and transform the apartheid higher education system. He also played a pioneering role in facilitating the transition from the Tertiary Education Fund of South Africa (TEFSA) to the now National Students financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)”, added the Minister.
“I worked with Prof Bengu in a number of capacities. My earliest interaction with him was in the mid-90s, when I was part of the ANC's negotiating team at the Constitutional drafting process. During this period, I consulted him regularly on matters relating to education policy. This work helped shape Section 29 of our democratic Constitution. Later, I also worked with him in my capacity as Chairperson of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Education between 1994 and 1999, and together we championed a number of progressive education laws”, the Minister stated.
“In 2022, I approached him on behalf of government to accept the renaming of what was then known as the Historically Disadvantaged Institutions Development Grant (HDI-DG) to be the Sibusiso Bengu Development Programme (SB-DP)- an honour he accepted with great humility, but was quick to warn me to ensure that this programme does not fail.”
The Sibusiso Bengu Development Programme (SB- DP) is aimed at decisively redressing the inequalities that have negatively impacted the development and sustainability of the HDIs and seeks to enable them to respond to cross-cutting imperatives, including decolonisation in higher education; indigenous knowledge systems; the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and digitisation”.
“On a more personal note, Prof Bengu is one of the people who contributed directly to my personal progress. In 1977, as Dean of students at the University of Zululand, he saved me from dropping out of university by organising a student loan to pay the R100 that was required as part of my outstanding fees in September 1977”, recalled the Minister.
“In Prof Bengu our country has lost not only one of its most committed educationists, but also a model public servant and patriot, who even when his own health was waning, continued to serve his country and people with dignity and integrity. It is therefore no exaggeration to declare that Prof Bengu was one of those who laid the basis for our democracy”, the Minister stated.
On behalf of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, and South Africa's entire public science system, I wish to extend my deepest condolences to Professor Bengu's wife, Mama Funeka Bengu, his daughters and son, grandchildren, extended family, friends, and colleagues.
May we draw much needed inspiration from his monumental and inspirational legacy of selfless service.
Minister Nzimande will be visiting the Bengu family home in KZN today, Thursday 2 January at 11h00, to personally offer his condolences.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Government.
Minister Nzimande visits the late Professor Sibusiso Bengu’s family
Minister Nzimande visits the late Professor Sibusiso Bengu’s family
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, is today visiting the family of Professor Sibusiso Bengu to offer his condolences.
Bengu passed away on Monday at the age of 90.
On behalf of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, and South Africa’s entire public science system, Nzimande extended his deepest condolences to Professor Bengu’s wife, Mama Funeka Bengu, his daughters and son, grandchildren, extended family, friends, and colleagues.
“Prof Bengu holds the distinction of leading our iconic university, Fort Hare, into the democratic era as its vice chancellor in the early 1990s, and also served as democratic South Africa's first Minister of Education. In the latter capacity, he played a seminal role in dismantling the apartheid edifice of our country’s education sector and helped to usher in a single, coordinated, non-racial, non-sexist education system.
“As part of the Cabinet of President Nelson Mandela, he led the introduction of a number of foundational laws that helped to shape the policy and institutional architecture of South Africa’s school and post school sector in the decades following the collapse of the apartheid system,” Nzimande said.
These include the South African Schools Act of 1996 and the policy recommendations of the National Commission on Higher Education that guided government’s efforts to reconstruct and transform the apartheid higher education system.
He also played a pioneering role in facilitating the transition from the Tertiary Education Fund of South Africa (TEFSA) to the now National Students financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
“I worked with Prof Bengu in a number of capacities. My earliest interaction with him was in the mid-90s, when I was part of the ANC’s negotiating team at the Constitutional drafting process. During this period, I consulted him regularly on matters relating to education policy. This work helped shape Section 29 of our democratic Constitution. Later, I also worked with him in my capacity as Chairperson of Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Education between 1994 and 1999, and together we championed a number of progressive education laws”, the Minister said.
The Minister explained that in 2022, he approached him on behalf of government to accept the renaming of what was then known as the Historically Disadvantaged Institutions Development Grant (HDI-DG) to be the Sibusiso Bengu Development Programme (SB-DP) - an honour he accepted with great humility, but was quick to warn the Minister to ensure that this programme does not fail.
The Sibusiso Bengu Development Programme (SB- DP) is aimed at redressing the inequalities that have negatively impacted the development and sustainability of the HDIs and seeks to enable them to respond to cross-cutting imperatives, including decolonisation in higher education; indigenous knowledge systems; the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and digitisation.
“On a more personal note, Prof Bengu is one of the people who contributed directly to my personal progress. In 1977, as Dean of students at the University of Zululand, he saved me from dropping out of university by organising a student loan to pay the R100 that was required as part of my outstanding fees in September 1977,” recalled the Minister.
“In Prof Bengu, our country has lost not only one of its most committed educationists, but also a model public servant and patriot, who even when his own health was waning, continued to serve his country and people with dignity and integrity. It is therefore no exaggeration to declare that Prof Bengu was one of those who laid the basis for our democracy.
“May we draw much needed inspiration from his monumental and inspirational legacy of selfless service,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 01/02/2025 - 12:42
0 views
How the SRD Grant System Has Been Defrauded
Poor systems enabled it
Final hours to apply for NSFAS funding for 2025 academic year
Final hours to apply for NSFAS funding for 2025 academic year
Time is running out for prospective students to apply for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the 2025 academic year.
Applications, which opened on 20 September 2024, will officially close at midnight on 15 December 2024.
Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane, has issued a final call to all eligible students, urging them to submit their applications before the deadline to avoid disappointment.
Earlier, the Minister has said that the department making sure that the NSFAS is ready for the 2025 academic year.
“Our priority is to increase access to all parts of the country, with... NSFAS presence on all campuses at the beginning of the academic year. We have started the process of regionalisation to ensure that we expand access to everyone, and no one must be left behind,” Nkabane said.
In partnership with NSFAS, Nkabane led an outreach programme at Nkangala Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College, Middleburg Campus, where she encouraged students to apply for funding.
Since its inception, NSFAS has supported more than five million beneficiaries, producing hundreds of thousands of skilled professionals, especially from within the poor and working-class sections of society.
This year alone, the scheme is supporting about 1.2 million students, with the number anticipated to grow in 2025.
How to apply for funding
Prospective applicants can apply by visiting https://www.nsfas.org.za/
• Create a myNSFAS profile.
• Log in to the profile.
• Complete the application steps.
• Submit the application online.
Who qualifies for NSFAS funding?
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible:
• Be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
• Have a combined gross household income of no more than R350,000 per year.
• Applicants with disabilities qualify if their combined household income does not exceed R600,000 annually.
• South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant recipients automatically qualify and are not required to submit proof of income.
. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sun, 12/15/2024 - 13:23
379 views
Universities urged to make provision for student accommodation
Universities urged to make provision for student accommodation
Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, has encouraged institutions of higher learning to provide land on campus to build student accommodation facilities in a bid to make it easier to manage the standard of student accommodation and safety.
“It is our collective responsibility to make sure that we create a safe and conducive environment for students, so that the university can produce the necessary labour force that must shape the economy of our country, which will lead to a capable, ethical and developmental State,” Nkabane said.
Nkabane made the call when she unveiled a 200-bed student accommodation facility at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) eMalahleni campus on Monday.
The project was funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training through the department’s infrastructure and efficiency grants of R110 million, as well R8.298 million from TUT.
The building, which will be used to accommodate students from the 2025 academic year, is the first phase of the project that will accommodate 200 female students.
Nkabane said student accommodation was one of the main challenges facing the higher education sector and had a direct effect on the performance of students and the quality of graduates produced each year.
“The victims of this challenge, in the main, are the historically disadvantaged students who cannot afford expensive accommodation that is conducive to learning. The issue of accommodation also directly addresses the challenges of student safety, which we are concerned about as a sector,” Nkabane said.
She announced that TUT was part of the Student Housing Infrastructure Programme Phase 2, which is aimed at building an additional 3 500 beds across the TUT campuses for the period 2024/25 to 2026/27.
The Student Housing Infrastructure Programme aims to help universities to develop their infrastructure to address student accommodation challenges.
During Phase 2, the eMahlaleni Campus will benefit from 500 bed spaces.
“The department, together with the National Treasury’s Budget Facility for Infrastructure, has already allocated R788.382 million, comprising the department’s IEG [Infrastructure and Efficiency Grant] contribution of R450.5 million and National Treasury’s BFI [Budget Facility for Infrastructure] of R337.882 million with the remaining required budget of approximately R235 million to be augmented by debt financing from the DBSA [Development Bank of Southern Africa],” Nkabane said.
The Minister warned that the department would not tolerate delays in the transformation agenda.
“We will monitor all the projects and make sure that they are completed within the specified timeframes, and we will harshly deal with corrupt counter-revolutionary tendencies. We challenge all the students to jealousy guard and protect our infrastructure,” the Minister said.
The unveiling of student accommodation was followed by a visit to the Nkangala Technical Vocational Education and Training College’s Middleburg campus, in partnership with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
The college has five campuses around the Nkangala District and purchased the Top of the World Training Centre in 2015.
The college invested in the centre after government developed a National Development Plan (NDP) in 2012, which mandated that the country must produce 30 000 artisans annually.
The centre was purchased having only three accreditations, both training centre and trade test centre, including boilermaker, mechanical fitter, and electrician.
“The centre later acquired welder accreditation, and all the accreditations were on legacy. The centre now has six accreditations on New Occupational Programmes: fitter and turner, millwright, mechanical fitter, boilermaker, welder, and electrician.
“The new accreditations will increase capacity from 60 trainees of apprenticeship to 90. The centre is used to train and test artisans, can accommodate 90 apprenticeships and 90 Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning, and 400 NCV [National Certificate Vocational] students. The centre has produced more than 1 300 artisans to date,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 12/10/2024 - 10:55
727 views
Deadline looms for NSFAS applications
Deadline looms for NSFAS applications
With five days left before the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) application process for the 2025 academic year closes, Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, has encouraged eligible students to submit their applications on time.
Nkabane launched the opening of the application process on 20 September 2024. The applications close at midnight on 15 December 2024.
“Let me remind everyone that we are moving towards the closing date of the NSFAS application process for the 2025 academic year. The NSFAS application [window] is closing on 15 December 2024. Apply while there is still time to avoid any disappointments," the Minister said on Tuesday.
Nkabane said the department is making sure that NSFAS is ready for the 2025 academic year.
“Our priority is to increase access to all parts of the country, with... NSFAS presence on all campuses at the beginning of the academic year... We have started the process of regionalisation to ensure that we expand access to everyone, and no one must be left behind,” Nkabane said.
In partnership with NSFAS, Nkabane led an outreach programme at Nkangala Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College, Middleburg Campus, where she encouraged students to apply for funding.
Since its inception, NSFAS has supported more than five million beneficiaries, producing hundreds of thousands of skilled professionals, especially from within the poor and working-class sections of society.
This year alone, the scheme is supporting about 1.2 million students, with the number anticipated to grow in 2025.
How to apply for funding
To apply for funding, applicants should visit http://nsfas.org.za, create a myNSFAS profile, log into the profile and complete the easy application steps, and submit the application.
Who qualifies for NSFAS funding
To qualify for NSFAS funding, an applicant must meet the following criteria:
• Be a South African citizen or permanent resident, who comes from a home with a combined gross household income that does not exceed R350 000 per annum.
• Persons with disabilities qualify if their combined household income does not exceed R600 000 per annum.
• South African Social Security Agency recipients automatically qualify for funding and need not submit any proof of income. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 12/10/2024 - 12:54
5 views
Higher Education Stakeholders Ready for 2025 Academic Year
The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education said yesterday that universities should prioritise submitting accurate student registration and enrolment data to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) at the beginning of the academic year to ensure accurate funding decisions.
The committee was speaking during a briefing from the Department of Higher Education and Training, Universities South Africa, the South African Public Colleges Organisation, NSFAS, the South African Union of Students and the South African Technical and Vocational Education and Training Students Association on preparations and readiness for the 2025 academic year.
The committee recommended that issues emanating from the 2024 registration period should not continue in 2025. These issues included delays in processing applications for funding, disbursements of allowances, processing of appeals and matters related to private accommodation.
The chairperson of the committee, Mr Tebogo Letsie, said, “After our engagements, we are hopeful that measures put in place to ensure a successful start to the 2025 academic year have been properly set in motion by stakeholders in the post-school education and training sector.
NSFAS told the committee that it has ended the pilot project and is now implementing the NSFAS Accredited Student Accommodation Programme. NSFAS also said it is in consultations to discontinue accommodation disbursements to individual students and by 2026 all accommodation disbursements will be directed to the accredited or recognised accommodation provider.
The committee recommended that the Department of Higher Education and Training should expedite the process of standardising allowances for technical and vocational education and training (TVET) and university students, recognising their shared experiences.
The committee will undertake oversight visits to assess the state of readiness of TVETs and community education and training colleges during the 2025 academic year.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Minister Tolashe wishes social grant beneficiaries well in matric exams
Minister Tolashe wishes social grant beneficiaries well in matric exams
Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe has sent well wishes to the beneficiaries of social grants who will be writing their National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.
According to the records of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) there are 696 886 social grants beneficiaries writing the NSC exams which commenced on Monday.
The department has, through SASSA, invested R46 677 286 420 in the Class of 2024 from 1997 to current financial year to support the learners.
In the 2023 academic year, 556 133 social grant beneficiaries wrote their final matric exams and 451 578 passed, achieving an 81.3% pass rate.
The Minister said this success rate is testament to the substantive positive impact and outcomes of comprehensive social security on the health and well-being of children.
“Social assistance is the biggest government programme to deal with poverty. As the class of 2024 sits for the final examination, we understand the path that you have travelled, and we wish you the best of luck as you write your examinations,” the Minister said.
Social grants beneficiaries are encouraged to apply to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for assistance with tertiary education. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 10/22/2024 - 14:39
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Matriculants encouraged to apply for NSFAS funding
Matriculants encouraged to apply for NSFAS funding
As the 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations kick-off today, Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Nobuhle Pamela Nkabane, has reminded all matriculants to seize the opportunity to apply for funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
“The application window will close on 15 December 2024, and there are now just 55 days to submit applications. Eligible students are urged to apply promptly to secure financial support for their post-school education,” Nkabane said.
Nkabane extended well wishes to all matriculants, who sat for the National Senior Certificate Exams, with learners writing languages, English and Afrikaans Paper 3.
Nkabane said this pivotal moment marks the culmination of years of hard work and encourages the Class of 2024 to approach their exams with determination and confidence.
With Just over 880 000 candidates, including 727 121 full-time and 155 215 part-time candidates from across South Africa sit for this year's matric exams, across South Africa, Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, has assured the public of the department’s preparedness to administer the exams smoothly.
Nkabane highlighted a range of opportunities available within the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) system, which is open to all matriculants seeking further education and skills development.
The PSET system includes:
• Community Education and Training (CET) colleges: Offering skills development and general education for students who want to continue learning.
• Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges: Focusing on practical skills and technical knowledge to equip students for employment and self-employment.
• Higher Education institutions: Universities and higher education providers offering degree and diploma programmes.
“The PSET sector supports the National Skills Development Strategy (2030) goals to address the nation’s skills development priorities and drive a skills revolution. Explore these pathways and pursue your ambitions through the diverse opportunities available in South Africa's PSET sector,” Nkabane said.
For more information on NSFAS applications and PSET options, visit: https://www.nsfas.org.za, https://www.dhet.gov.za/. - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 10/21/2024 - 12:44
166 views
Special Investigating Unit: cracking down on corruption
Special Investigating Unit: cracking down on corruption
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has closed more than 1900 cases during the 2023/24 financial year.
The unit also handed over 26 comprehensive reports to President Cyril Ramaphosa on the outcomes of investigations.
“These reports include, amongst others, the investigations about the National Lotteries Commission, Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA), the Masters' Office, and National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). These reports reflect the SIU’s dedication to transparency and accountability in the fight against corruption.
“The SIU has referred evidence for the institution or defence/opposition of civil proceedings worth R4.8 billion. This includes, amongst others, matters regarding R2 billion from Eskom, R834 million from Transnet, R29.1 million from the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality and R48.4 million from the City of Cape Town,” the unit said in a statement.
The unit has conducted lifestyle audits at PRASA, the Gauteng Office of the Premier, and the Free State Department of Community Safety, Roads, and Transport.
The SIU said it was committed to partnering with other law enforcement agencies to combat corruption.
“The SIU recognises the importance of collaboration in the fight against corruption. In line with the SIU Act, 583 criminal referrals were made to the National Prosecuting Authority, ensuring accountability prosecution of officials, private entities and individuals involved in corrupt activities.
“These referrals reflect the unit’s ongoing efforts to ensure consequences for those who engage in corruption, maladministration and fraud. To ensure accountability for government officials involved in wrongdoing, SIU referred 297 officials to respective state institutions for disciplinary action,” the statement read.
The corruption busting unit is now within the fifth year of its turnaround strategy and has vowed to keep up the fight against criminality.
“[We] remain resolute in our mission to combat corruption, fraud, maladministration and malpractice in the public sector.
“The next five-year strategy will build on the successes of the previous strategy and focus on developing and implementing the National Corruption Prevention Strategy and implementing best practices, including cyber and data analytics, and further business process digitisation programmes,” the statement said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 10/15/2024 - 13:13
323 views
SIU claws back billions for the State
SIU claws back billions for the State
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) says it has saved the South African government approximately R8 billion during the last financial year through “effective investigations, speedy litigation and recovery processes”.
This, according to the SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago, is a testament to its commitment to fighting the scourges of corruption, maladministration and malpractice.
Kganyago said the amount is inclusive of a record recovery of funds in actual cash amounting to R2.28 billion – the highest recovery in the corruption busting unit’s 27-year history.
“In addition to these recoveries, the SIU prevented a further R2.32 billion in potential state losses and secured cash to be recovered from the acknowledgement of debt and admission of liability agreements to the value of R1.6 billion.
“In our pursuit of rectifying irregular administrative decisions, the SIU successfully set aside contracts and administrative action worth over R2.13 billion through the Special Tribunal and the High Court of South Africa. This legal action ensures that public funds are recovered, not squandered, and redirected to serve their intended public purposes.
“The SIU continues to safeguard the public purse and ensure that state resources are protected and used for the benefit of all South Africans. We call on all South Africans to be involved in the fight against corruption,” Kganyago said.
In a statement, the unit said the bulk of the recoveries come from investigations into Transnet, Eskom and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
“The Transnet recoveries amounted to R710 104 826.03, R500 000 000 from Eskom, and the NSFAS investigation totalled R191 027 281.50 by the end of the 2023/24 financial year.
“In terms of matters, contract and/or administrative decisions and/or actions set aside or deemed invalid, contracts emanating from the Eskom investigation contributed the most, with the contract value of R1 206 984 667.56,” the SIU said.
Successes in the medico-legal investigation also account for some R1.98 billion of prevented losses. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 10/15/2024 - 12:06
620 views
NSFAS 2025 application cycle opens
NSFAS 2025 application cycle opens
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has officially opened the 2025 application process.
Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, launched the opening of the application process during a media briefing held in Pretoria on Friday.
Applications are now open and will close on 15 December 2024.
Nkabane said since its inception, NSFAS has supported more than five million beneficiaries, producing hundreds of thousands of skilled professionals, especially from within the poor and working-class sections of society.
“Those are the motivating forces that must be mobilised to contribute to the ongoing transformation of our country. The social transformation entails changing the material conditions of all South Africans for the better and education plays a vital role in ensuring that this becomes a reality,” Nkabane said.
NSFAS has been an instrumental vehicle in making sure that government produces the necessary labour force for a capable state.
In this year alone the scheme is supporting about 1.2 million students, with the number anticipated to grow in 2025.
“This demonstrates the role that the scheme has played in trying to change the structural colonial apartheid system that we have inherited, whose legacy persists even in the 30 years of democracy. NSFAS is the only tool we have at our disposal for the total liberation of children of historically oppressed people.
“As from this year, we have also decided to introduce measures to support students who are currently not supported by the NSFAS bursary and funding policy. We successfully did this through the implementation of the first phase of the Comprehensive Student Funding Model, which ensures that the missing middle students access financial support from government in a form of a loan to pursue their studies,” Nkabane said.
How to apply for funding
To apply for funding, applicants should visit the NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za or my.nsfas.org.za, using a cellphone, tablet or computer and follow the easy steps.
Create a myNSFAS account, then click on the ‘Apply’ tab and complete the online form, upload the required documents where applicable and then click on ‘Submit’.
Who qualifies for NSFAS funding
To qualify for NSFAS funding, an applicant must meet the following criteria:
• Be a South African citizen or permanent resident who comes from a home with a combined gross household income that does not exceed R350 000 per annum.
• Persons with disabilities qualify if their combined household income does not exceed R600 000 per annum.
• SASSA recipients automatically qualify for funding and need not submit any proof of income.
Loan scheme for the missing middle
The NSFAS Loan Scheme for the missing middle is open to all South African citizens and permanent residents from households with combined incomes of between R350 000 and R600 000 per annum.
For the list of qualifications covered in the NSFAS Loan Scheme for the missing middle, applicants should visit www.nsfas.org.za.
Applicants are reminded to provide the correct Identity Document (ID) numbers, name(s), and surname, as reflected in their South African ID.
NSFAS only funds individuals who are studying or intend to study at a public university or TVET college in South Africa.
Nkabane urged all students who wish to study in any of the public universities and TVET colleges to apply timeously and not to wait until the last day.
“Learners do not have to wait for matric results to apply for NSFAS. Apply now and avoid delays in the processing of your application!” the Minister said.
She said NSFAS will continue to have outreach programme in all provinces, targeting the rural and township communities. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 15:55
144 views
Cabinet urges students to apply for NSFAS bursaries and loans
Cabinet urges students to apply for NSFAS bursaries and loans
Cabinet has called on all qualifying students entering and already in the tertiary education sector to apply for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) bursaries and loans, which opened on Friday, 20 September.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme officially opened the 2025 applications process today and is committed to providing bursaries and loans to eligible and deserving students who require financial assistance.
Speaking at a media briefing on Friday, Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said: “to apply, aspiring and returning students should visit my.nsfas.org.za”.
Applications will close on 15 December.
On Monday, Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane also invited all students who are siting for their matric exams this year to take this opportunity and apply for either the NSFAS bursary or loan.
Having received a presentation during the stakeholder consultations, and having noted the comments received from stakeholders, Nkabane said she was confident that the NSFAS is ready to kickstart the 2025 online application process.
“This invitation is also extended to learners from grade 9, 10, and 11, who would like to enter the Technical and Vocational Education and Training sector,” Nkabane said at the time.
The NSFAS bursary is open to all South African citizens and permanent residents with a combined household income of not more than R350 000 per annum.
For persons living with disabilities, the combined household income is capped at R600 000 per annum. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant recipients automatically qualify on financial eligibility.
The NSFAS loan is open to all South African citizens and permanent residents where the combined household income is between R350 001 and R600 000 per annum.
For persons living with disabilities, the combined household income is capped at R600 000 per annum.
– SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 14:35
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