By Mkhuleko Hlengwa MP
IFP National Spokesperson
The IFP notes the resignation by former National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) board chairperson, Mr Sizwe Nxasana.
We welcome Mr Nxasana’s resignation, as it now allows for the entire board of the entity to walk the plank. The board in its entirety is not representative of all involved in the Education sector.
A board without youth representation, students and young professionals alike, cannot steer the organisation to be centred and focussed around dealing with issues which matter most to young people.
The IFP is calling on Higher Education and Training Minister, Naledi Pandor MP, to take a firm stance and dissolve the entire board of NSFAS.
It is unfortunate that former ANC President, Jacob Zuma’s legacy woes lives on at NSFAS and total change is required in order to address student’s needs.
Minister Pandor would do well to use the powers of her office to ensure things are turned around at NSFAS.
NSFAS exists to provide financial aid to qualifying students at public TVET colleges and universities, yet its main purpose has not been fulfilled due to students still waiting on payments due to them eight months into the year.
This is totally unacceptable. Minister Pandor’s tough-talks are not enough. She must immediately dissolve the board, and ensure that funding issues are ironed out before the start of the new academic year in 2019.
Media Enquiries:
Mkhuleko Hlengwa MP
IFP National Spokesperson
071 111 0539