Unisa has taken note of concerns raised by students regarding direct payment system

The University of South Africa has taken note of concerns raised by students in relation to the challenges they are experiencing from the implementation of the NSFAS adopted direct payment methods. 

NSFAS has introduced a direct payment system to students across the country. It uses various features for such payments, e.g., some are serviced via Norraco, some via Ezaga, whilst others such as Unisa are serviced via Coinvest. 

NSFAS indicated that the rationale behind the direct payment system was to ensure its accountability regarding student allowances and to establish a better coordinated system for the transfer of funds to students.

Some students have complained about not having received their funds on time, or funds disappearing from their accounts, etc. This discontent on the part of students has resulted in protest action experienced by some universities. Also, some student organisations have indicated that they could mobilise students in other universities across the country to embark on protest action. 

Unisa Management has taken note of the challenge(s) that relate to the new implementation method and is exploring ways to intervene. The University appreciates the interaction and consultation that NSFAS is engaged in with various universities and related stakeholders on this matter. On its part Unisa, through its Student Funding Directorate, Coinvest and student leadership are working with NSFAS to find a workable solution in ensuring that our students are not disadvantaged unfairly. 

In its recent media statement, NSFAS indicated that should it find activities that defeats the purpose of direct payment, it would do the following:

• An investigation of the complaints will be conducted and where the allegations are proven true, appropriate action will be taken.
• Service providers will be instructed to increase their physical presence at institutions of higher learning so that they can respond directly to student queries on direct payment.
• There should be an immediate enhancement of explanations on how students can access their funds to avoid delays in the distribution of allowances.
• There will be a three-way meeting between student leaders, NSFAS management and the service providers on the 13th or 14th of July to iron out all relevant matters. 

Unisa encourages our students to complete their NSFAS onboarding process to enable them to access their NSFAS bank accounts by going to the NSFAS website.                          

For more information on Unisa Student Funding, please contact letsomp@unisa.ac.za  

Click here to read the NSFAS media statement of 10 July 2023 on defunded students and direct payment. 

Click here to read the NSFAS media statement of 5 July 2023 regarding NSFAS beneficiaries.