NSFAS Responds To Student Exploitation Allegations And Accommodation Challenges

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has recently responded to the serious allegations of student exploitation by unscrupulous landlords, as reported in the Sunday World article “Unscrupulous landlords demand sex from students.”

The NSFAS has taken a strong stance against all forms of gender-based violence and exploitation, stressing its dedication to student safety and assistance.

NSFAS Response to Allegations

In light of the grave allegations revealed in the Sunday World article published on February 16, 2025, NSFAS condemned the abuse of vulnerable students. To fully address these allegations, the organisation has launched a combined investigation with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and eThekwini TVET College.

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NSFAS intends to share its findings after the investigation is completed, maintaining transparency in its operations. Furthermore, NSFAS has promised to help affected students in filing charges against perpetrators if the allegations are proven.

The organisation stated that it will take serious measures against any landlords found guilty of wrongdoing, including blacklisting and terminating their services. This commitment indicates NSFAS’s priority to protecting student welfare and eliminating gender-based violence in educational institutions.

Financial Support for Students

In addition to these troubling allegations, the institute addressed students’ continued financial concerns. On January 31, 2025, NSFAS issued a circular detailing steps to guarantee that funded students may register in academic programs without financial difficulties.

This includes provisions for students who have unpaid fees due to the Close-Out project, which will allow them to re-enroll.

In addition, the financial scheme has communicated with public universities about outstanding allocations for 2024, assuring that it will settle tuition and related costs for affected students.

Notably, NSFAS beneficiaries do not have to pay registration fees at public Post Secondary Education and Training institutions, which reduces financial burdens on students.

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Ongoing Challenges in Student Accommodation

The student accommodation crisis is a major issue, worsened by NSFAS payment delays. According to reports, NSFAS owes accommodation providers R44 million in unpaid rental fees, risking students’ access to housing as they prepare for the 2025 academic year.

Due to late payments, many students have been forced to live in risky conditions or rely on private landlords who may not prioritise their safety.

The Private Student Housing Association (PSHA) has expressed concern about these outstanding fees, saying that without immediate payment, many students may risk eviction or be left without suitable housing choices. This condition has serious implications for student well-being and academic progress.

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