NSFAS To Launch New Student Accommodation Framework By November

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has confirmed it will roll out a new student accommodation framework by the end of October.

The scheme says the initiative is designed to tackle persistent problems such as delayed payments, unpaid landlords, and students left stranded without housing.

Speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria on Wednesday, NSFAS officials acknowledged the difficulties that have long plagued the system. They assured the public that steps are being taken to create a more reliable and transparent process.

Landlord Concerns and Payment Missteps

In August, the Private Student Housing Association raised concerns over NSFAS mistakenly paying rental funds directly into students’ accounts. While some students paid their landlords as expected, others used the money for different urgent needs, putting them at risk of eviction.

NSFAS admitted the error and emphasized that the new framework will close loopholes in payment systems to prevent similar mistakes. The scheme has also appealed to landlords to follow proper payment guidelines to avoid unnecessary evictions.

Building a Sustainable Accommodation System

NSFAS Acting CEO Wasseem Carrim highlighted that the organisation is committed to long-term reforms.

“NSFAS does not want to pass the student accommodation function around like a football and we want to ensure that we build the correct guidance framework, policy environment, internal controls, skills and capacity, as well as business processes,” Carrim said.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia Seeks Briefing From Masemola On Cape Town Gang Violence

Board members have assured students, landlords, and institutions that approved projects are already underway to strengthen the scheme’s operations and prevent recurring issues.

The goal is to ensure that by November, the accommodation system will be more efficient and student-friendly.

---

For More, Follow SurgeZirc SA On  Facebook, X,  Instagram and Bluesky