NSFAS commits to paying student accommodation providers by 4 April
Students are reportedly being threatened with evictions from their accommodation as a result of non-payment.
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JOHANNESBURG - The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has committed to paying student accommodation providers by 4 April 2025.
Students are reportedly being threatened with evictions from their accommodation due to non-payment.
NSFAS said students' verification before processing payments delayed the release of funds.
Officials said during checks, they identified ghost students who are neither funded by NSFAS nor enrolled in any public institution or college.
In response, NSFAS said the non-compliant accommodation providers who stood to unlawfully benefit from funds intended for legitimate NSFAS-funded students would be investigated.
NSFAS spokesperson, Ishmael Mnisi, said, “At this point, NSFAS is adhering to the payment date of April 4th, 2025. However, we are continuously assessing our internal processes and the situation surrounding the payments. Should it become possible to expedite this payment date, we will promptly communicate any changes with all stakeholders, including accommodation providers and students.”
NSFAS has appealed to landlords to be more patient while it resolves the issue.
"We, therefore, appeal to landlords with outstanding payments not to evict students because NSFAS is committed to resolving all legitimate claims. It is essential to consider the impact of evictions on both students and landlords, particularly during these challenging times."