Nsfas restores funding for 357 NMU students after qualification code error

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (Nsfas) has restored funding for 357 students at Nelson Mandela University (NMU) who were previously defunded due to errors in their qualification codes. Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Yusuf Cassim, confirmed this restoration during his visit to NMU’s Gqeberha campus on September 18.

Cassim has been actively addressing the funding issue since his appointment in July 2026, repeatedly raising the matter with Nsfas to expedite assistance for the affected students. The Ministry of Higher Education and Training confirmed that all allowances for the students in question were up to date.

In addition to funding, Cassim visited NMU’s George campus on September 19 to address concerns related to Nsfas funding, food, accommodation, and Seta bursaries. Students raised issues such as defunding linked to GAP investigations, incorrect qualification codes, and dual registration. They also expressed concerns over delays in implementing the Meal Management System (MMS) opt-out, unhealthy food options, lack of Halal choices, safety concerns related to off-campus accommodation and transport, and difficulties accessing campus health services.

Disability support was another issue, with students reporting delays in receiving disability allowance approvals.

Cassim emphasized that students should not be forced into meal arrangements they did not choose and instructed Nsfas to review the status of meal allowances linked to the MMS to develop an operational plan for an expedited opt-out process. He also condemned campus disruptions, stating that blocking entrances and preventing students from accessing government services was unacceptable.

Cassim apologized for the disruptions but stressed that they should not hinder collective efforts to ensure no student is left behind. The Ministry of Higher Education and Training affirmed Cassim's commitment to supporting NMU and its students.