The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) has described challenges relating to funding as a hindrance to many students at Universities and TVET Colleges.
The ministry provided an update on the state of affairs alongside stakeholders from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) in Pretoria.
Minister Buti Manamela revealed that they will continue to engage with the National Treasury in this regard.
“Over the next four years, we will fully implement a sustainable student funding model. We will consolidate Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) and Community Education and Training (CET) reform.
“We will drive digital learning across the system, ensuring every learner can benefit from technology-enabled education,” Manamela said.
Although efforts to ensure the rollout of free education for all continue, Manamela expressed concern regarding the country’s fiscal purse and economic growth in achieving this priority.
He however assured that a sustainable funding model will be implemented over the next four years.
Reforms in the SETAs are expected to assist the department expand research, innovation and ensure career opportunities for students.
During the media briefing, NSFAS attributed student payment delays to technical issues and the transition from direct payments to a new system.
Manamela warned that the department cannot afford instability at NSFAS.
“I’ve asked the CEO, the national and the chairperson of NSFAS to convene an urgent briefing and brief the nation, particularly the students on the state of NSFAS and some of the challenges that they’ve been confronted with,” remarked Manamela.
The Minister concluded by calling for collaborative efforts to address all the challenges faced by the sector, to avert a situation where young people are locked out of education opportunities.
