NSFAS says IT security systems tightened after SIU identified flaws
The SIU discovered that the scheme incorrectly paid billions of rands to tens of thousands of students who did not qualify.
The NSFAS logo. Picture: @myNSFAS/Twitter
CAPE TOWN - The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) says it has placed tight security around its IT systems after flaws and weaknesses were identified by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) last year.
In its preliminary findings, the SIU discovered that the scheme incorrectly paid billions of rands to tens of thousands of students who did not qualify.
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The SIU also identified risks to the scheme's IT systems, which were vulnerable to hacking and other cyber threats.
NSFAS acting chief information officer, Thulani Meluli, appeared on Wednesday before Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Higher Education.
"In an era earmarked by escalating cyber threats, the NSFAS has actually established a cybersecurity unit that stands as a defence against the potential risk.
“So, this unit is committed to safeguarding the sensitive data, mitigating security incidents, and fostering a culture of security within the organisation."
Meanwhile, the NSFAS board said work was in process to terminate contracts of service providers accused of corruption.
The board was criticised by members of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education in Parliament on Wednesday for its lack of urgency in dealing with the matter.
A Werksmans attorney report recommended NSFAS to cut ties with the four companies appointed to administer direct payment services to students.
Acting NSFAS board chairperson, Professor Lourens van Staden, said there were legal loopholes they needed to jump before terminating the contracts.
"What we are doing is we are actually trying with the legal firm Werksmans to put this in the fast lane to terminate, and then simultaneously disciplinary hearings will take place, regarding the NSFAS individuals."