DA investigates NSFAS student accommodation legal review

The Democratic Alliance (DA) demands that NSFAS be transparent about its investigations into student accommodation management and related partnerships.

Matlhodi Maseko, the DA spokesperson for Education and Training, questioned the validity of the legal review, expressing concern that NSFAS might be using it as a “stalling tactic.”

In a statement on Polity.org.za, Maseko accused NSFAS of failing to provide transparency on several aspects of its legal review.

DA concerned by the lack of information on legal review

These include detailed information on what is specifically being reviewed, the timelines for the legal review process, and confirmation that the findings will be shared with students, higher education institutions, and the general public.

NSFAS announced late last week that it was conducting a legal review of its student accommodation management process but provided few details about the review.

NSFAS reportedly stated that it will use the review’s outcomes to “improve transparency, integrity, and efficiency in its payment processes.”

The scheme indicated that all student accommodation payments are made following the conclusion of verification and validation processes.

“Non-payment may result from claims that are not funded, claims lacking confirmation from relevant institutions, or cases where registration data was not received before the payment deadline,” said the NSFAS statement.

Maseko said while the DA welcomes such reviews it’s far too late, especially since students have to endure evictions, unsafe living conditions and academic disruptions resulting from delayed or non-payment of fees for student accommodation by NSFAS.

“If this process is genuine and not simply a stalling tactic, NSFAS should have no hesitation in committing to full openness and accountability.

“Students cannot continue to bear the cost of NSFAS’s mismanagement. Public funds must be used to secure safe, quality student housing and not vanish into dysfunctional systems and incoherent processes, added Maseko.

NFSAS was vague on when its pending legal review will reach conclusion and if it plans on sharing its findings with the public.