NSFAS Challenges
This follows the announcement by the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology Blade Nzimande on Monday about the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding shortages and the need for all institutions of higher learning to extend the registration period. Students have until 5 April 2021 to register.
The University will communicate with its various stakeholders, especially its first-time entering students who qualify for NSFAS, once a further announcement is made by the Minister later this week.
Minister Nzimande said on Monday that the scheme was unable to confirm funding eligibility because of budget constraints, the impact of the pandemic and an ailing economy. He did confirm, however, that all academically-deserving senior students who were already NSFAS beneficiaries would continue to be supported financially.
Assurance of Mandela University’s Support
The University is mindful of the anxiety this news is causing prospective students and their families, especially since the University’s orientation programme is already underway in preparation for the start of the 2021 academic year.
Please be assured that Mandela University will be doing all that it can to assist in ensuring that those impacted are not disadvantaged by the present challenges. Please also note that this is a national challenge that is not only restricted to our institution.
Lectures
Students who may still be having registration challenges, given the issues outlined above, should still attend classes, be it online or on campus as guided by their faculty, while matters are resolved.
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