Note to editors: Please find attached a soundbite by Chantel King MP.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) condemns the shocking mess that the NSFAS is in and is adamant that heads must roll. This follows the resignation of Ernest Khosa as the Chair of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and the dissolving of the NSFAS board amidst allegations of fraud, misconduct, and the constant nonpayment of financial aid.
These allegations, which implicate Mr. Khosa and Higher Education Minister Dr. Blade Nzimande, have shaken the foundations of trust in the administration of student financial aid once again.
Once again, the nonpayment of student allowances has left many students hungry, without funds for food, and even facing the real risk of being put out on the streets. This dire situation underscores the urgent need for action to address the systemic failures within NSFAS and the Department of Higher Education. Something the DA has been calling for since it became clear that the system was riddled with problems.
In light of the resignation of Mr. Khosa and the dissolving of the NSFAS board, the DA calls on Minister Nzimande to follow suit and resign with immediate effect. Minister Nzimande cannot be absolved from actions of the board since he has defended the decisions of the board on numerous occasions.
In a time of crisis, it is the duty of government to safeguard and empower the nation’s future by ensuring that students receive the support they need to become educated and skilled individuals, driving forward the economic progression and prosperity of our country.
The DA stands firm in its commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in all sectors of government, especially in matters concerning the welfare of students and the proper management of public funds. The recurring problems of nonpayment of student allowances and the alleged fraudulent activities involving kickbacks from service providers have not only undermined the wellbeing of students but have also threatened the continued functioning of our higher education system.
The DA will not waver in our pursuit of justice for those who have been negatively affected by the mismanagement of NSFAS.