Manamela welcomes Public Protector findings on NSFAS systemic failures
Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela has welcomed the Public Protector’s findings on systemic NSFAS failures, saying longstanding governance and administrative challenges contributed to the scheme being placed under administration.
Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has expressed satisfaction with the Public Protector's findings regarding systemic inefficiencies at the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). The Public Protector released a Section 7(9) notice detailing problems in NSFAS's administration, governance, funding, coordination, and oversight.
NSFAS spokesperson Matshepo Seedat confirmed that these issues have been longstanding concerns, contributing to Manamela's decision to place the scheme under administration. The problems were also echoed in a recent report from NSFAS administrator Professor Hlengani Mathebula, highlighting urgent intervention requirements. In March, Manamela raised concerns about NSFAS's financial management and governance after a meeting with the Auditor-General of South Africa.
The administration intervention aims to stabilize NSFAS, improve governance and financial management, and address systemic weaknesses to ensure the scheme fulfills its mandate. Seedat stated that Manamela will continue to cooperate with the Public Protector and consider any further findings and recommendations. The well-being of students and the success of post-school education and training institutions remain the priority for Manamela as he works with relevant institutions to resolve NSFAS's challenges and provide necessary support to students.
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