EFFSC welcomes the termination of the corrupt NSFAS direct payment service providers
14 July 2024
The Economic Freedom Fighters Students' Command (EFFSC) notes and welcomes the termination of the 4 contracts of service providers who were irregularly appointed by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), to disburse student allowances. Namely, Coinvest, eZaga Holdings, Noracco Corporation, and Tenet Technology. This decision is a step in the right direction towards ensuring accountability and transparency in the management of student funds, and total eradication of any inconveniences towards students.
The EFFSC firmly believes that the interests of Students must be prioritized, and any form of corruption or mismanagement of funds must be eradicated. The EFFSC has long been concerned about the inefficiencies and delays caused by these dodgy direct payment service providers. These providers were not only incapacitated, leading to significant delays in disbursing payments, but also exploited students by charging them exhorbitant transaction fees to transfer money to their bank accounts.
Such practices are unacceptable and have added unnecessary financial burdens on students who are already struggling, and even worse monies disappearing on their profiles with no accountability. The EFFSC reiterates and rubber stamps the call of the EFF for a state-owned bank, as it would have been used to disburse student allowances directly from the government. Such a bank would ensure a more efficient, transparent, and corruption-free systems of managing and distributing financial aid to students.
This move is essential to safeguarding the future of our nation's youth and ensuring that every student receives the support they need to succeed in their academic endeavors. We salute Student Representative Councils (SRCs) of the EFFSC across the country who have pursued this fight uncompromisingly.
As Amilcar Cabral wisely stated, "We claim no easy victories." The EFFSC's call for free, quality education remains unwavering. We are committed to fighting for the rights of students and ensuring that their financial aid is managed with the utmost integrity and efficiency.
The EFFSC will continue to strive for a just and equitable education system that serves all students fairly and effectively.
Issued by Masixole Mabhongo, Communications & Information Officer, 15 July 2024
