Manamela describes new application portal model as a milestone

Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has hailed the new application portal for the 2027 academic year as a significant milestone for students seeking financial aid to pursue tertiary education. Speaking to the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training, Manamela and the Board of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) outlined the readiness and effectiveness of the application portal system.

The minister highlighted that the portal takes a comprehensive approach, covering registration, accommodation, and eligibility criteria verification, among other requirements. Manamela emphasized the importance of assessing readiness throughout the entire process, from application to payment, stating that the portal's completion is a major milestone.

However, he acknowledged that the current student funding model requires overhaul, and a sustainable funding model is being developed. Manamela emphasized the need for a simpler, more capable state capacity, without middlemen, to facilitate student funding. The guidelines for student funding at universities are expected to be completed by next year, with Manamela committing to providing specific interventions and proposals for a sustainable funding model during a future meeting with the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training.