Nsfas to settle R44m debt: Outa calls for immediate action

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (Nsfas) found itself under fire yet again as unresolved issues in its student accommodation programmes threaten to spark nationwide unrest. Despite previous warnings from Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa), Nsfas has not settled its debt to the Private Student Housing Association (PSHA). On Wednesday, Outa urged Nsfas to allow universities and colleges to manage student housing in 2024, citing the fund’s inadequate handling of private accommodation. In a statement by Outa this week, the PSHA warned that the accommodation provider would not open for returning students unless Nsfas settles the R44 million owed from last year’s accommodation within 14 days. Phemelo speaks to Outa Senior Project Manager, Rudie Heyneke and Nsfas Spokesperson, Ishmael Mnisi.