It's been less than a month since President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the seventh administration and appointed Dr Nobuhle Nkabane as the new Minister of Higher Education and Training.
These plans include increasing access to higher education, improving the quality, responsiveness, and efficiency of the Post-School Education and Training Systems and enhancing skills development to maintain national competitiveness and address societal challenges.
NSFAS
The minister also spoke about the importance of addressing challenges at the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). NSFAS has grown from disbursing R21.4 million in 1991 to almost R50 billion in the current financial year, supporting 800,000 students.
Former Minister Blade Nzimande dissolved the NSFAS board citing its inability to ensure the financial aid scheme implemented its responsibilities. He warned that the non-payment of NSFAS allowances had put students at risk of hunger and possible eviction prompting urgent action.
Minister Nkabane acknowledged that it was not ideal for NSFAS to be under administration for the second time in five years but is confident in the ongoing improvements.
We are turning around the tide; it is our commitment to root out corruption and maladministration in the NSFAS grant system.
Members Of Parliament Debate
Following the minister's address, members of parliament provided their response to the newly appointed higher education minister.
Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training, Tebogo Letsie revealed the department's goal to produce and certify 26,500 artisans by March 2025. This goal aligns with the National Development Plan’s objective of generating 30,000 artisans annually by 2030 through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.
Letsie emphasised the sector's crucial role in driving economic growth by developing a skilled workforce.
Committee members voiced concerns about the reduction in infrastructure grants within the medium-term expenditure framework. Members stressed that these cuts should not impact the NSFAS, underscoring the necessity for adequate infrastructure to support the growing number of students in higher education.
The African National Congress' Fasiha Hassan called for equal treatment of students in both the university and TVET sectors.
Mandla Shikwambana from the Economic Freedom Fighters expressed their support for the budget vote because they believe it will enhance educational accessibility. However, Shikwambana called for an overhaul of the NSFAS board, allowances for late applications and registration, and free driving lessons for students.
Desiree van der Walt from the Democratic Alliance highlighted the detrimental impact of corruption and poor governance at NSFAS. Van der Walt said NSFAS’ inefficiencies have driven many students to unregistered private colleges resulting in qualifications that do not meet industry standards and contributing to unemployment among youth aged 15 to 24.
They also called for changes to the NSFAS funding model, including a tiered system for loans and grants, with substantial financial support for low-income students
