5 days ago
- Politics
- The South African
DA probes NSFAS student accommodation review
The Democratic Alliance (DA) demands transparency from the NSFAS concerning its investigations into student accommodation management and such collaborations.
Matlhodi Maseko, the DA Spokesperson for Education and Training questioned the validity of the legal review, concerned that this move might be a 'stalling tactic' by NSFAS.
In a statement on Maseko claimed that NSFAS has failed to be transparent on several points surrounding its legal review.
These are: in-depth information on what exactly is under review, timelines of the legal review process, confirming the dissemination of findings to students, higher education institutions and the public at large.
NSFAS announced late last week that its student accommodation management process was undergoing legal review. The Scheme, however did not expand much on the details of the review.
NSFAS reportedly said the outcomes of the review would be implemented to 'enhance 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.
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