Buti Manamela, Minister of Higher Education and Training (Photo: GCIS)
The DA demands that Buti Manamela, minister of higher education and training, must urgently explain before parliament what is being done to restore management stability at the National Financial Aid Scheme for Students (NSFAS).
The call follows a new leadership battle within NSFAS, amid recent resignations from the board. Manamela has accepted several resignations from the NSFAS board in the past week, including that of the interim chairman, Dr. Mugwena Maluleke.
Dr. Delmaine Christians, DA spokesperson on higher education and training, says the latest developments confirm the party’s earlier position that NSFAS “is in a deep and ongoing management crisis”.
“Minister Manamela must urgently report to parliament on the steps being taken to restore governance, stabilize the council and protect students from further harm.”
According to her, in addition to the recent resignations, the board is apparently struggling with conflicting legal interpretations about quorum requirements, allegations that board activities are being hindered, and allegations of interference with executive appointments.
“These issues indicate a lack of clarity and unity within the leadership.”
She says it is also worrying that leadership appointments can be contested or seen as politically motivated.
“Internal conflict within the NSFAS board affects decision-making, while management processes are under pressure. This could further undermine public confidence in the institution.”
Christians say the latest disruption is particularly worrying because it indicates a possible breakdown in the relationship between the NSFAS board and Manamela.
“This raises serious questions about management stability, respect for due process and the independence of core decisions within the institution.”
The DA says NSFAS is still under crisis management and that there is no clear, credible turnaround plan.
“Given NSFAS’s existing problems with poor financial control, flawed ICT and verification systems, as well as ongoing disruption of student funding, this level of instability at leadership level is simply unsustainable.”
According to the party, students are ultimately the ones who bear the brunt when governance problems persist at NSFAS.
“Students should not be caught in the crossfire of a governance crisis. They need certainty, timely support and an institution that can properly carry out its mandate.”