NSFAS News

Court Rejects Attempt To Block NSFAS

Published

3 months ago

July 1, 2024

Court Rejects Attempt To Block NSFAS. In a significant legal development, the Western Cape Division of the High Court dismissed with costs an application by Ezaga Holdings to prevent the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) from reviewing and terminating its contract. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to ensure transparency and accountability within the NSFAS.

Background Of The Case

Ezaga Holdings And NSFAS

Ezaga Holdings is one of the service providers responsible for disbursing allowances to NSFAS beneficiaries. The company sought an interim order to stop NSFAS from implementing recommendations from the Werksman’s Report, which suggested a review and potential termination of Ezaga’s contract. This report aimed to improve the process of appointing direct payment service providers for NSFAS.

The Court Decision

Dismissal Of Ezaga Holdings Application

On June 12, 2024, the court ruled that Ezaga Holdings’ application lacked urgency, a key requirement for granting an interim order. This decision came as the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) successfully joined the case as a respondent, arguing against the urgency of Ezaga’s application. The court’s dismissal allows NSFAS to proceed with its planned review and potential termination of the contract.

Implications of the Ruling

SIU And NSFAS Stance

The SIU and NSFAS welcomed the court’s decision, viewing it as a critical step towards implementing investigation outcomes and enforcing consequence management. This ruling paves the way for corrective measures to address wrongdoings and strengthen controls within the public procurement process.

Counterapplication by Noracco Corporation

Noracco Corporation Involvement

Noracco Corporation, another service provider involved in disbursing NSFAS allowances, filed a counterapplication in support of Ezaga Holdings. However, this counterapplication was also dismissed with costs, further reinforcing the court’s stance on the matter.

Investigations and Findings

SIU’s Investigation Into NSFAS

The SIU’s investigation revealed that the tender process for appointing student allowance disbursement service providers, including Coinvest Africa, Tenet Technology (Pty) Ltd, Ezaga Holdings (Pty) Ltd, and Noracco Corporation, was allegedly irregular. The SIU and NSFAS have sought to review and set aside these contracts, aiming to have them declared invalid and unlawful.

Legal And Financial Repercussions

Seeking Redress And Accountability

The SIU and NSFAS are not only seeking to annul the contracts but also aim to reclaim all profits earned by these service providers from the contested tenders. Under Proclamation R88 of 2022, the SIU is authorized to investigate corruption and maladministration within NSFAS and recover financial losses caused by such actions.

Future Actions And Legal Framework

Civil Actions And Prosecutions

The SIU is empowered to initiate civil actions in the High Court or a Special Tribunal to rectify wrongdoings uncovered during their investigations. Any evidence of criminal conduct found during these investigations will be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action, in accordance with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996.

Conclusion

The dismissal of Ezaga Holdings’ application marks a crucial victory for NSFAS and the SIU in their mission to enhance transparency and accountability within the student financial aid system. This decision underscores the importance of rigorous oversight and corrective action to ensure the integrity of public procurement processes, ultimately benefiting the students and the public at large.

NSFAS News

When We Can Apply For NSFAS In 2025

Published

1 day ago

September 15, 2024

UIF Login

When We Can Apply For NSFAS. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a beacon of hope for many students seeking financial support to pursue higher education in South Africa. As we look forward to the 2025 academic year, it’s crucial for prospective students to be aware of the application timeline and eligibility requirements to maximize their chances of receiving funding. Here’s everything you need to know about applying for NSFAS in 2025.

NSFAS Application Opening Date for 2025

The NSFAS application period for the 2025 academic year is set to begin on Tuesday, 17 September 2024. This is the key date when the application portal will open, allowing eligible students to submit their applications. It’s advisable to apply as early as possible to ensure your application is processed promptly and to avoid any last-minute issues.

Eligibility Requirements

Before diving into the application process, it’s important to determine if you meet the NSFAS eligibility criteria. Here’s a breakdown of the requirements:

Citizenship: Applicants must be South African citizens.
Institution Registration: You must be registered or planning to register at a public university or TVET college.
Household Income: Your household’s combined annual income must not exceed R350,000.
Academic Requirements: You should meet the academic requirements of the institution you wish to attend.
Previous Funding: You must not have previously received NSFAS funding.
Postgraduate Studies: NSFAS does not fund postgraduate studies. If you are looking for funding for a postgraduate course, consider applying through the National Research Foundation (NRF).

Who Does Not Qualify?

While NSFAS aims to support as many students as possible, there are specific groups who are not eligible for funding:

Household Income: Students from households with an annual income exceeding R350,000 are not eligible.
Existing Funding: Students who have already received full study funding from other bursary sources cannot apply.
Second Undergraduate Degree: If you already have an undergraduate qualification and wish to pursue a second one, you cannot apply.
Private Institutions: Students enrolled in private higher education institutions are ineligible.
Non-Approved Qualifications: If your qualification is not approved by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) or is not SAQA accredited, you cannot apply.
Second Certificate: Students who have obtained a certificate qualification and wish to study for a second certificate are not eligible.

What Does NSFAS Cover?

NSFAS provides a comprehensive bursary package that includes:

Registration Fees: Full coverage of your registration fees.
Tuition Fees: Payment of your tuition fees.
Book Allowance: Financial support for purchasing books and other academic materials.
Accommodation: Coverage for accommodation or living expenses.

How to Apply

To apply for NSFAS funding for 2025, follow these steps:

Prepare Your Documents: Ensure you have all necessary documents ready, including proof of income, identity documents, and academic records.
Visit the NSFAS Website: Go to the official NSFAS website on 17 September 2024 to access the application portal.
Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form with accurate information. Be sure to double-check all details before submitting.
Submit Your Application: Once you have completed the form, submit it through the NSFAS portal. You may need to upload supporting documents as part of the application process.
Track Your Application: After submission, monitor the status of your application through the NSFAS portal to stay updated on any additional requirements or next steps.

Conclusion

The NSFAS application for the 2025 academic year opens on 17 September 2024, and it’s essential for prospective students to prepare and apply early. Understanding the eligibility requirements and the details of what NSFAS covers will help you navigate the application process smoothly. By ensuring you meet the criteria and submitting a complete application, you can take a significant step towards securing the financial support needed to achieve your academic goals. Good luck with your application, and may your journey towards higher education be a successful one!