Over the past few months the National Student Financial Aids Scheme confirmed the number of students who qualify for their funding for the current academic year. This was followed by the disbursement of student allowances by the scheme in June.
The most notable difference between this and prior academic years was that NSFAS allowance payments would be made directly to qualifying students. The scheme adopted this direct payment system to fast-track the NSFAS funding of students and facilitate more secure transactions for its beneficiaries.
Challenges With The NSFAS Direct Payment System
However, it appears that the scheme’s direct payment system has encountered problems in terms of functionality and its ability to deliver. Students complained about high transaction charges and not receiving their NSFAS allowance payments on time, while others stated that their funds disappeared from their NSFAS bank accounts.
The bursary scheme stated that it would increase the presence of its service providers in affected institutions to address these issues and attend to any related queries. Despite their efforts, NSFAS has noted that students have persistently attacked these service providers.
The scheme has since condemned these attacks and said that they will take the necessary steps to bring those responsible to justice.
NSFAS wishes to categorically state that it will not tolerate any form of harm or intimidation towards its officials. The scheme is working closely with law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities to identify and apprehend those responsible.
The scheme has reiterated its commitment to addressing the issues with its direct payment system by further engaging with stakeholders such as institutions and student representatives.
Meanwhile students who have not registered or on boarded their NSFAS bankaccount have been urged to do so as soon as possible to avoid any allowance payment delays.
