Nsfas has recently briefed the media and public higher education about the bursary scheme’s readiness for the current academic year. However, some higher learning institutions are yet to receive confirmation of student funding applications from the bursary scheme, including Unisa.
The University of South Africa (Unisa) has announced a delay in the confirmation of 2023 Nsfas funding applications. This news is likely to create concern among new and returning Nsfas-funded students, who rely on the funding to support their studies.
The open long-distance university’s management has stated it is actively engaging with Nsfas management to resolve the issue and to minimise the impact of the delay on the academic calendar.
They added that Nsfas is aware of the negative effect the delay is having on students, and both organisations are working together to finalise the funding process as soon as possible.
Unisa management is engaging with Nsfas management to finalise the process and to make Nsfas aware of the negative impact this delay is having on the academic calendar.
According to the official statement from Unisa, “Further information will be communicated to new and returning Nsfas students as soon as it becomes available.” This means that students are advised to keep an eye out for any updates from the university.
The delay in Nsfas funding applications has caused anxiety and uncertainty among students who rely on the funding to pay for tuition fees and other academic expenses.
Unisa management has assured students that they are doing everything in their power to resolve the issue and to minimise the impact on the academic calendar.
Meanwhile, On Tuesday this week Higher Education Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande joined the Nsfas Board Chairperson, Mr Ernest Khosa, and the scheme’s Executive Management to announce the Nsfas funding preparedness and funding allocation decisions for the 2023 academic year.
The media briefing was primarily focused on the approved budget and allowances whilst the Nsfas Chairperson emphasized the scheme’s updated eligibility criteria & conditions for financial aid, system enhancements to improve its efficiency, institutional and student support and the overall administration of the scheme.
