
Nkabane commits to fast-tracking TVET NSFAS allowances
'We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused by the delays in allowances – delayed payments are unacceptable,' the Minister stated.
NSFAS is currently working with its financial services partner to resolve the glitch caused by the size of the batch files to prevent further disruption.
Nkabane acknowledged that around 800 students at one institution still face transfer issues, but she assured them that funds will be paid by 30 April.
'We are committed to ensuring that our students receive the essential support efficiently and promptly,' she said.
Alongside current allowance concerns, NSFAS has pledged to settle all outstanding 2024 payments owed to students and accommodation providers. A detailed communication plan on this matter is expected by 30 April.
In a separate development, NSFAS has addressed a funding delay caused by qualification code mismatches for students in National Certificate (Vocational) programs.
'I am pleased to report that 80% of the results were released to examination centres on 2 April,' said Nkabane.
Further evidence will be submitted to Umalusi by 5 May, with final results expected by 12 May.
Furthermore, regarding funding appeals, NSFAS announced that most 2025 appeals have been processed. The Appeals and Tribunals Committee reviews outcomes to ensure they align with policy. Students are urged to check their NSFAS accounts for updates and upload any required documents promptly.
'As the Minister of Higher Education, I appreciate the patience and understanding of all affected students and stakeholders during this process,' said Nkabane.
Let us know by leaving a comment below or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles

IOL News
32 minutes ago
- IOL News
Tata Motors announces entry into South Africa with its range of cars and SUVs
Tata Motors' range to be released in South Africa will boast segment-leading safety across SUVs, crossovers and entry-level compact hatchbacks. Image: Supplied Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles (TMPV), a subsidiary of Tata Motors—India's largest automotive company—has officially announced its entry into the South African market. With a reputation as one of India's most admired automotive brands, Tata Motors brings a comprehensive portfolio to South Africa, spanning compact hatchbacks to high-performance SUVs. Known for manufacturing the nation's safest vehicles, TMPV emphasises cutting-edge design, advanced technology, and relentless innovation in its product offerings. Yash Khandelwal, head of international business at Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, on Wednesday said South Africa was an important market in their global expansion journey. 'With our class-leading products and a reputed partner in Motus, we are here to offer our South African customers a choice of vehicles that are safe, stylish, and innovation-driven,' Khandelwal said. 'We will deliver a distinctive and future-ready mobility experience, backed by attractive pricing, competitive financing and industry-leading aftersales support.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ As part of its commitment to driving inclusive growth, TMPV will also prioritise local value creation through various initiatives aimed at supporting employment in sectors such as sales, service, and technician training. The auto maker believes that this strategic approach not only reinforces Tata Motors' dedication to empowering local communities but also strengthens local economies. In a significant move aimed at utilising local expertise and building a strong presence, TMPV has appointed Motus Holdings, South Africa's leading automotive group, as the exclusive distributor for its diverse range of passenger vehicles. Thato Magasa, CEO of Motus Holding's TMPV South Africa distribution business, expressed enthusiasm about the launch, highlighting the brand's advanced design architecture, cutting-edge technology, and unmatched safety standards. 'Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles' introduction to South Africa is not just about vehicles, it's about providing a comprehensive mobility solution, backed by a globally respected conglomerate and a proudly South African partner dedicated to serving customers with excellence,' Magasa said. 'This introduction is not merely about vehicles; it's about providing a comprehensive mobility solution, backed by a globally respected conglomerate and a proudly South African partner dedicated to serving customers with excellence.'


The Citizen
32 minutes ago
- The Citizen
Business confidence increases, but will come under pressure from US tariff
Although business confidence is higher since the beginning of 2025 compared to the same seven months in 2024, US tariffs can change all that. Business confidence increased in July, but the 30% US tariff will put it under pressure once the fallout starts as orders dry up and local companies have to cut expenses and staff. According to the SACCI Business Confidence Index (BCI), the business climate improved over the short-term between June and July, as well as the medium-term from July 2024 to July 2025. In the short-term, 11 of the 14 sub-indices either remained unchanged or reflected a positive business climate, while over the medium-term, 10 sub-indices continued to imply an improved business climate. Over the year to July 2025, business confidence increased by 7.6 index points and by 3.5 index points between June and July 2025. The average for the BCI in the first seven months of 2025 was 118.6, 7.7 index points higher than the 110.9 for the corresponding period in 2024. The most positive short-term impact on business sentiment in July were made by an increase in new vehicles sold, increasing manufacturing output, the increasing global price of gold and platinum and lower inflation. Reduced volumes of merchandise imports, fewer overseas tourists and the decreased real value of building plans passed were signs of a weakening business climate. The medium-term (year-to-year) improved business environment was evident from increasing inward tourists, rising sales of new vehicles, lower inflation and higher world prices for precious metals. ALSO READ: Business confidence tanks in second quarter due to pessimism about trading conditions Reduced export volumes only negative from year ago Reduced volumes of merchandise exports were the only notable negative impact on the business environment from a year ago. Statistics for the automotive sector already showed a decrease in exports of about 80%. Richard Downing, economist at SACCI, says more uncertainty for South Africa could start weighing on economic activity as deadlines for additional US tariffs expire without substantial permanent agreements and progress. 'Economic growth could improve if trade negotiations lead to a more predictable framework and rational tariffs. Negotiations should support business and investor confidence, predictability and sustainability prior to other considerations. 'The imposition of a general US tariff of 30% on exports from South Africa could have unintended and austere consequences for the South African economy and for longer-term business relations. The categories of exports and the sectors affected will also play a role in how it affects economic growth and employment in the country.' ALSO READ: US tariffs: SA sends new proposal but no changes to laws US tariffs must be sorted out to grow the economy Downing says given South Africa's open economy, with 32% of output being exported, it remains obligatory that all global economic and business relationships be fostered. He points out that SACCI is concerned that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecasts South Africa's real economic growth at 1% for this year and 1.3% for 2026, while the South Africa Reserve Bank, at its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting at the end of July forecast growth of 0.9% for this year and for 2026. 'With such subdued economic performance, it becomes important that all efforts should be taken to enhance positive foreign trade relations, including the US, especially with the possibilities of revisiting the provisions of the Agoa Agreement. 'Although local business confidence has at least stabilised, it is important that it returns to levels achieved earlier in the year as the government of national unity took shape. 'The downside risks of potential or real higher trade tariffs to the economy, elevated uncertainty and geopolitical tensions that persist should make way by restoring confidence, predictability and sustainability of economic performance.'

IOL News
2 hours ago
- IOL News
Why smart women still struggle with money – and what to do about it
retirement savings, money matters The 10X Retirement Reality Report (2023) found that nearly half of South African women (49%) don't have a retirement plan, compared to 43% of men. More women see themselves as savers. Image: File We know how to save, stretch a budget, cover school fees, and find the best deals. But ask us about investing or long-term financial planning, and many smart, capable women still feel like we're getting it wrong. A survey shared by financial journalist Maya Fisher-French in partnership with Satrix revealed something striking: while women are highly competent money managers, only 15% rate themselves as very knowledgeable about investing, compared to 42% of men. That's not a knowledge gap; it's a confidence gap. And it's costing us. The cost of playing it safe The 10X Retirement Reality Report (2023) found that nearly half of South African women (49%) don't have a retirement plan, compared to 43% of men. More women see themselves as 'savers,' while fewer identify as 'investors.' It's a cautious, risk-aware approach to money that often limits long-term growth. Cash savings rarely keep pace with inflation. True financial freedom requires a long-term investment strategy that benefits from diversified returns across different asset classes. logo Image: Supplied Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Interestingly, a 2021 study by global asset manager Fidelity found that women outperformed men by 40 basis points on their investment returns - not because they took more risk, but because they were more consistent and long-term focused. While I meet more and more women taking control of their money - empowering themselves with knowledge, confidence, and clear plans for the future - many others still feel stuck. But the shift is real. It's a reminder that we're more capable than we believe, and that change is already happening. We don't need to be overnight experts. But we do need to start seeing ourselves as capable - and worthy - of building wealth. Why so many women still feel stuck Over the years, I've sat with senior executives, entrepreneurs, teachers, and single mothers - successful women, deeply committed to their families and futures. And yet, when we talk about money - especially long-term planning or investing - I still hear the same words: I'm not good with money. I don't know where to start. I'm not confident with finances. Money doesn't interest me. I'd rather let someone else handle it. Behind the spreadsheets are stories of guilt, shame, sacrifice, and silence. The struggle has little to do with numbers - and everything to do with the beliefs we carry. Most of us weren't taught to see ourselves as financial decision-makers. We were raised to be caregivers and nurturers - praised for selflessness, not independence. These stories stay with us. They shape our confidence and leave us stuck - hesitant to invest or make bold decisions for our future. When life shifts, so do our money habits Divorce, death, retrenchment, empty nest, retirement, supporting adult children - these are deeply emotional chapters, and they often expose the financial cracks we've ignored. Sometimes we overspend to numb grief. Sometimes we give too much to avoid feeling selfish. We often spend our time and money on our children and parents, with nothing left for our own secure future. Sometimes we freeze - unsure of how to move forward, so we don't. And often, we make decisions from a place of guilt, shame, or fear. I've met women who trusted their partners to manage the money, only to find later that everything had been squandered or mismanaged. I've met others who handed control to a financial planner without truly understanding what was being done with their funds. I cannot tell you how often women walk into my office after the death of a spouse with no idea where to begin. A divorce is often where all your protective defence mechanisms and wounds are exposed, and one of the places where it is hardest to separate emotions and money. I've seen women who hand over their power and security for the wrong reasons: because they feel guilty, embarrassed or responsible. These are not 'bad' financial decisions. They are emotional responses to very real pain. Why emotional habits shape our money choices I often hear clients say: I don't deserve it. I blew it. I wish I had started sooner. I'm not earning. It's not mine. Money gives me confidence. Many of our poor money habits are deeply tied to our emotional lives. We stay out of financial conversations not because we don't care, but because we feel inadequate. We give too much, not because we have too much - but because we want to feel worthy. When you start to see your money behaviour as a mirror of your inner world, you can begin to change the script. Start with clarity, not shame There's power in simply seeing things as they are. What do you own? What do you owe? What do you spend? What do you want? Clarity means you're paying attention. It gives you the foundation to plan, make intentional choices, and set boundaries with love and firmness. A life plan and a financial plan together help you shift from reacting to your circumstances to creating your future. Small steps to reclaim your power You don't need to do everything at once. But you do need to start. And the first step isn't financial; it's personal. It's about shifting from self-doubt to self-trust. Get clear - know what you own, what you owe, what you spend, and what you want. Build a plan for your life and your money. When you know what matters to you, your money decisions become purposeful. Talk about money - the more we normalise these conversations, the more empowered we become. Ask for help and work with a financial planner who supports your whole journey – not just the numbers. Track your giving. Be generous, but not at the cost of your own future. You are your greatest asset This isn't about blaming ourselves for not doing better. It's about giving ourselves permission to show up - with courage, clarity, and authenticity. Your earning power, your ability to grow, your insight and wisdom - these are the things that will carry you forward. You don't have to prove anything. You simply have to begin by paying attention to your money and being intentional with your life. Kim Potgieter, Certified Financial Planner, Author and Coach. Image: Supplied