A meeting held in the past week with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Board, senior officials at NSFAS and other key stakeholders, highlighted the need for adequate preparation for the 2023 academic year, and to systemically manage large-scale proposed NSFAS policy changes incrementally with all stakeholders, to ensure minimal disruptions across the university sector.

Universities South Africa (USAf) had requested the meeting after raising several concerns with NSFAS and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), regarding proposed changes on

1. the direct disbursement of NSFAS funds to students,
2. the issuing of student paid-for banking cards and services (that are currently free),
3. proposed financial capping of accommodation allowances, and
4. an envisaged plan by NSFAS to accredit student accommodation without the assistance of universities.

USAf called for joint risk mitigation strategies ensuring that universities can register new and returning students in 2023, without significant disruptions.

For more details, we refer you to the attached statement from USAf.