The National Student Financial Aid Scheme is under pressure after an audit reportedly found that bursary payments were made to 822 students who were recorded as deceased. The findings point to major failures in governance and financial controls inside the scheme. Cape Town Etc reported that the audit also uncovered payments to thousands of students who did not qualify for funding.

Audit Points to Wider Funding Failures

According to reports, funding was not only paid to deceased beneficiaries. It also allegedly went to students whose household income was above NSFAS thresholds, students who had already failed their studies and others who already held qualifications. That raises serious questions about how beneficiary checks were handled and whether public money meant for poor and working-class students was properly protected.

Youth League Slams ‘Breakdown in Governance’

The ANC Youth League has condemned the findings, saying the payments show a deep failure of accountability. It also questioned why NSFAS systems were not properly integrated with Home Affairs and other government databases. The league said the issue goes beyond admin mistakes and reflects a broader governance crisis that affects young people who rely on student funding to access higher education.

Minister Orders Action

Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela has reportedly directed investigations and corrective action in response to the audit. He described the matter as a serious crisis in governance and service delivery. The report said the minister wants officials to investigate the irregular payments, recover misallocated funds, strengthen verification systems and protect legitimate beneficiaries.