NSFAS News

SIU And Hawks Investigating Whether NSFAS Chairman Got kickbacks

Published

4 months ago

May 24, 2024

SIU And Hawks Investigating Whether NSFAS Chairman Got kickbacks. The recent uproar surrounding the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has brought to light concerning allegations against its former board chairperson, Ernest Khosa. The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa) has raised serious concerns, alleging that Khosa received kickbacks from service providers associated with NSFAS, despite an investigative report commissioned by NSFAS dismissing these claims as baseless.

Outa Calls For Further Investigation

Outa’s investigations manager, Rudie Heyneke, has urged law enforcement agencies to delve deeper into these allegations, emphasizing the need for thorough scrutiny to ascertain their veracity.

Revelations From The Investigative Report

NSFAS recently disclosed the findings of an investigative report conducted by advocate William Mokhare SC, addressing Outa’s allegations. This report, spanning 106 pages, analyzed leaked voice recordings of meetings between Khosa and individuals linked to Coinvest, a service provider contracted by NSFAS. Despite Outa’s assertions, the report found no evidence supporting the allegations of bribery against Khosa.

The Role Of Audio Recordings

The crux of the matter lies in two audio recordings of meetings between Khosa, Thula Ntumba, and Joshua Maluleke. These recordings, surreptitiously obtained by Ntumba and subsequently leaked to Outa, formed the basis of Outa’s accusations. However, the report clarified that Khosa was unaware of being recorded during these discussions.

Lack Of Substantiated Evidence

While Outa’s report accused Khosa and Nzimande of accepting kickbacks, the Mokhare report dismissed these claims, asserting that no concrete evidence was found to support such allegations. Furthermore, the report highlighted that Khosa’s discussions with Ntumba and Maluleke did not breach confidentiality regarding board matters but were nonetheless deemed as lapses in judgment.

Law Enforcement Role

Heyneke reiterated that Outa has forwarded all evidence to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) and the Special Investigating Unit (SIU). He expressed confidence in the ongoing investigations, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in resolving these allegations.

Conclusion

The allegations surrounding Ernest Khosa and NSFAS underscore the critical need for thorough investigation and transparency in matters concerning public trust and financial integrity. As law enforcement agencies delve into the intricacies of this case, the public awaits clarity and accountability in ensuring the fair and just administration of student financial aid.

NSFAS News

When We Can Apply For NSFAS In 2025

Published

1 day ago

September 15, 2024

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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!