The Department of Higher Education and Training has assured students that swift action is being taken to address delays in the disbursement of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) allowances and to finalize outstanding NSFAS appeals.
TVET Allowance Payment Delays
Minister of Higher Education, Dr Nobuhle Pamela Nkabane, acknowledged the late payment of TVET student allowances initially scheduled for April 25, 2025. The delays were attributed to a system glitch affecting batch files, with payments subsequently processed on April 26 and reflected in student accounts by April 27.
A specific group of approximately 800 students continues to experience challenges with fund transfers, and NSFAS is working with financial services institutions to rectify the issue by April 30, 2025.
“We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused. We recognize the serious impact delays have on students relying on these allowances for living expenses,” said Minister Nkabane.
Outstanding 2024 Amounts to Be Settled
NSFAS also committed to settling all outstanding 2024 amounts owed to students and accommodation providers. A detailed communication plan on the way forward is expected by April 30, 2025.
Progress on NSFAS Appeals Process
The Minister reported that most appeals submitted for 2025 have been successfully addressed. The NSFAS Appeals and Tribunals Committee continues to review outcomes to ensure consistency and fair application of policies. Students are encouraged to monitor their accounts for any updates or requests for additional documentation.
Addressing Qualification Code Discrepancies
Minister Nkabane confirmed that NSFAS has resolved a major discrepancy affecting National Certificate (Vocational) [NC(V)] students. About 80% of the corrected results were released to examination centres on April 2, 2025.
Additional evidence has been collected and will be submitted to Umalusi by May 5, with the anticipated release of final results between May 9 and May 12, 2025.
“We remain committed to ensuring that all eligible students receive their funding and results promptly,” the Minister said.
