The 2024 academic year is set to commence at higher learning institutions across South Africa. Institutions are anticipating an enrollment of over a million students in programmes offered by universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges nationwide.
Nompendulo Mkhatshwa, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, Science, and Innovation, has lauded the accomplishments of the 2023 higher education class and extended congratulations to the matric class of 2023.
The matric class of 2023 achieved an impressive pass rate of 82.9%. Many of the matriculants who completed their exams are poised to enter the higher education sector in 2024.
Mkhatshwa is advocating for timely support for both first-time and returning tertiary students within the higher education sector. To prepare for the upcoming academic year, the committee conducted meetings with key stakeholders, evaluating their readiness and addressing potential challenges.
These engagements involved discussions with Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande, the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), student unions, and the TVET Governor's Council.
During these discussions, stakeholders informed the committee of their preparedness for 2024 and outlined plans for a seamless start to the academic year, with a focus on mitigating any potential challenges. The committee acknowledged the areas of concern raised and encouraged collaborative efforts, under the leadership of the DHET, to prevent any possible disruptions.
Concerns were specifically raised about issues faced by NSFAS in concluding matters from the previous year, prompting the committee to stress the need for an urgent resolution to prevent disruptions in student registration for 2024. Notably, thousands of students did not receive some of their NSFAS allowance payments in 2023.
The committee also sought the Ministerial Task Team Report on the Comprehensive Student Funding Model, particularly regarding financial assistance for missing-middle students. Minister Nzimande launched the Comprehensive Funding Model in January, aiming to provide government support to students who do not qualify for NSFAS bursaries.
Furthermore, the Committee on Higher Education plans to engage with stakeholders affected by concerns related to allegations made against Minister Nzimande and NSFAS Board Chairperson Ernest Khosa.
These allegations stem from leaked audio recordings, suggesting that they received kickbacks for the awarding of a lucrative contract to pay NSFAS allowances.
In addition, the committee will conduct oversight visits to institutions in the Eastern Cape to assess readiness for the new academic year. These visits will involve collaboration with the Department of Higher Education and Training and NSFAS to monitor plan implementation and address concerns within the Higher Education Sector.
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