Let's Talk: NSFAS and the impact of negligence and carelessly mistreating citizens
Good morning/afternoon/evening, you beautiful people!
I had a completely different post scheduled for today, in light of 16 days of activism against gender-based violence. That particular post will be posted next week Sunday!
I am a student and the current plight of South Africa's national bursary system has me alarmed and deeply saddened as a recipient.
NSFAS applications for the 2025 academic year opened on the 20th of September 2024 and they will close on the 15th of December 2024. This is more than enough time for applicants to apply but there is a huge problem that is being swept under the rug.
Applicants who are moving sectors, such as from TVET to university, like myself have to complete a new application. When you remain within the same sector and your funding doesn't change, the application process is quite simple. In fact, moving to a new sector, should be simple as well but it is not. According to the website, there should be an edit button on the system that helps applicants to make this transition and apply to a new sector. This “edit” button has never been on the website.
I called NSFAS on the 13th of November 2024 and I was told that the problem would be escalated to the manager who would then inform the IT team. I was given a 72 hour turnaround time but it has been well over 3 weeks and nothing has changed. I have sent several emails with no response. I have spent hours on the phone, only for the call to be dropped when I was next in line! On another occasion I was told that the system was “offline”, and that I should “call again later”. When I did call again no one answered, as I expected because nobody answers the phone after 10am, it's like an unspoken rule.
I am beyond frustrated and disappointed in the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, as I checked their website and discovered that matriculants are being urged to apply, but what of college students? What of the students who have been funded all throughout their years at college and have worked tirelessly because they want to go to university and need the funding. This is my story and I know of people who have similar plights. Why are we being cast aside and ignored?
For so many, NSFAS is a bridge to a better future. A bridge that makes that better, brighter future a possibility and not a pipe dream. It is so important to maintain those that already exist within the system and meet their needs before pulling more people into a broken system. The need is there, the funds are there, the hardworking, deserving South Africans there but the willingness to utilise this is lacking greatly. It dampens what is supposed to be the most relaxing and joyous time of the year.
I have spent weeks trying to apply. I have spent hours on a phone queue. I have sent several unanswered emails, what more is there that I can do? I do not know! The negligence of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, saddens me more than words can express. How can a national organisation ignore its citizens so bluntly and without shame?!
We need more accountability and transparency. A campaign being held days before the closing date without year-long support and accountability is just mockery!
Question of the week? How do you feel about NSFAS?
In my attempt to end things on a lighter note, God still sits on the throne, so somehow it will be okay! I just wish for us to hold our politicians and leaders accountable and to a higher standard. A standard that demands accountability, transparency and receipts!
December 12 Edit:
There's no edit button but the system now allows reapplications! I am beyond grateful to Jesus, my classmate who told me to reapply and to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme for not leaving us high and dry!
Don't forget to apply! Applications close on December 15th 2024!
All my love ❤️
Ruthy
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