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NSFAS has issued an urgent notice to all accredited accommodation providers at the University of Fort Hare, instructing them to immediately stop evicting students. The scheme confirmed that October 2025 allowances have been paid, and students retain full rights to stay in their residences regardless of the university’s closure.
What’s the Issue?
Several NSFAS-accredited accommodation providers at Fort Hare’s East London and Alice campuses issued eviction notices to funded students, demanding they vacate by 10 October 2025. Providers claimed the evictions were due to the temporary closure of the university.
However, NSFAS has called these actions unlawful. The scheme clarified that the closure of the university does not cancel student accommodation agreements, which remain legally binding.
“Students who are residing in NSFAS-accredited and managed properties retain full rights to occupy these properties,” the notice reads.
NSFAS Confirms October Payments
To eliminate confusion, NSFAS confirmed that it has disbursed accommodation allowances for October 2025. This financial support guarantees students’ continued right to stay in their accredited accommodation.
Step-by-Step: What Students and Providers Should Know
For Accommodation Providers:
- Do not issue or enforce eviction notices to NSFAS-funded students.
- Acknowledge the contractual agreement with NSFAS, which remains valid regardless of university closure.
- Comply immediately to avoid legal consequences.
For Students:
- Remain in your NSFAS-accredited residence unless advised otherwise by NSFAS.
- Report any eviction threats to the university or NSFAS.
- Keep documentation of your accommodation agreement and allowance status.
NSFAS’ Final Directive
NSFAS has officially instructed all accredited accommodation providers in East London and Alice to halt all eviction proceedings with immediate effect. Non-compliance could lead to legal consequences.
“No student shall be evicted from NSFAS-accredited accommodation during this period,” the circular concludes.
