SIU probe into NSFAS “long overdue” says Nehawu
The National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (Nehawu) says the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) investigation into the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is “long overdue”.
Spokesperson Lwazi Nkolozi says Nehawu has been at the forefront of highlighting the “dire state” of NSFAS.
“The probe by the SIU will focus amongst others on two areas namely: management of NSFAS's finances and the allocation of loans, bursaries and any other funding payable to students in terms of the NSFAS Act.
“The SIU will also investigate related unauthorised, irregular or fruitless and wasteful expenditure incurred by the NSFAS.”
Earlier this week, President Cyril Ramaphosa authorised the SIU to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration at NSFAS and recover any financial losses suffered by the institution.
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Nkolonzi adds that the corruption of NSFAS has compromised the post schooling sector.
“The malfeasance at NSFAS has compromised the post schooling and training sector. It has contributed to the bearers besetting the sector which includes the financial and academic exclusion of students, lack of student funding, student accommodation and housing as a result of maladministration and corruption at the scheme.
"As a major stakeholder in the post schooling and training sector we welcome this decision as NSFAS remains a critical instrument in the realisation of providing access to free quality education for poor and working class students."
