Universities and NSFAS Urged to Resolve Registration Fees Issue

Universities and NSFAS Urged to Resolve Registration Fees Issue. As the deadline for National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) bursary applications looms, the South African Students Congress (Sasco) is advocating for prompt resolution of issues affecting students. Sasco highlights concerns related to registration fees and accommodation accreditation, urging collaboration between the scheme and universities to mitigate the impact on aspiring students. Check Also: NSFAS Online Application 

NSFAS Bursary Applications Closing Soon

With the impending closure of NSFAS bursary applications, Buti Manamela, the deputy minister of higher education, science, and innovation, emphasizes the importance of timely submissions for those aspiring to enroll in public universities and Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.

NSFAS Current Impact

Manamela reveals that NSFAS is currently providing financial support to over 1.4 million students across public universities and TVET colleges, emphasizing the inclusivity of the program.

Application Process and Deadline

Eligible students, including SA Social Security Agency (Sassa) beneficiaries or those with a household income less than R350 000, are encouraged to apply. Manamela directs applicants to the official NSFAS website (www.nsfas.org.za) for the user profile creation process, emphasizing the ease of application with just a cellphone or computer and internet access.

Sasco Concerns

Sasco expresses concern over the current application period, particularly highlighting issues related to registration fees. Yandisa Mhlelembana from Sasco in Gauteng notes that universities are withholding spots for students until registration fees are paid, leaving many applicants uncertain about securing study spaces.

Conflict Between Scheme and Universities:

Mhlelembana attributes the conflict between NSFAS and universities to challenges with direct payments. Universities are reluctant to cover registration fees until funds are received from NSFAS. Additionally, disputes arise over the centralization of student accommodation accreditation by NSFAS, with universities advocating for accreditation at the institutional level.

Negotiations and Solutions

Sasco plans to engage with university finance departments to negotiate on behalf of Nsfas-approved students, advocating for flexibility in the registration process to alleviate the uncertainty faced by applicants.

Caution Against Fraudulent Practices

Manamela warns applicants about fraudulent activities, urging vigilance against fake websites and individuals claiming to expedite applications in exchange for money. This caution aims to protect aspiring students from falling victim to scams.

Conclusion

As the NSFAS application deadline approaches, Sasco’s call for the swift resolution of issues related to registration fees and accommodation accreditation reflects the pressing challenges faced by many students.

Collaborative efforts between the scheme, universities, and student organizations are crucial to ensuring a smoother application and enrollment process, ultimately benefiting the education aspirations of South African students. Applicants are reminded to exercise caution and adhere to official channels to avoid potential scams during this critical period.