Nsfas spokesperson Kagisho Mamabolo says that the doubling of DHET budget over the past three years shows the government's commitment towards funding the poor and deserving. This comes as funding increased from R20 billion in 2018 to R42 billion in the current financial year.
TVET Colleges
About 90% of the students who form part of next year’s Nsfas funding allocation come from TVET Colleges with another 63% of nsfas funded students enrolled in universities. He adds the majority of these students are Sassa grant beneficiaries.
However, the latest research on the R350 SRD grant found that more than of its applicants were under 34 years of age and possessed either a matric and higher education qualification.
NSFAS
Mamabolo further stated that this has been a critical concern for the current board at Nsfas. He adds that one of its top priority lists was reviewing its nine policies which were found to no longer be relevant, including how nsfas assess its eligibility criteria.
The board has deliberated on a new policy that will seek to look at the national qualification framework for government, as it stipulates that Universities and colleges should offer programmes that are only recognised and are aligned with the framework.
Mamabolo says that Nsfas is aware of the country's human resource development strategy, adding that if one aspires to become an artisan or a plumber they have a better chance at finding employment.
The National Student Finacial Aid's new board is also looking to raise funds from the private sector.
