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Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Buti Manamela.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is calling on Higher Education and Training Minister, Buti Manamela, to urgently account to Parliament on what it describes as a deepening governance crisis at the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). This follows the resignation of NSFAS interim board chairperson, Doctor Mugwena Maluleke, and reports that at least seven board members have resigned since July 2025.
This has raised serious concerns about the board’s ability to function effectively.
WATCH | South Africa’s student funding system faces renewed uncertainty after Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela accepted the resignations of several NFSAS board members. Private Student Housing Association CEO Kagisho Mamabolo claims replacing board members and the CEO is… pic.twitter.com/DEdj2GQIg6
— SABC News (@SABCNews) May 2, 2026
The scheme is facing challenges including funding delays and administrative failures.
DA Spokesperson on Higher Education and Training, Doctor Delmaine Christians says what is even more concerning is the apparent breakdown in the relationship between the minister and the board.
“This raises serious questions about accountability, due process, and institutional independence. At a time when NSFAS is already struggling with weak financial controls, failing systems, and ongoing disruptions to student funding, this instability is unacceptable. Students cannot be caught in the crossfire of leadership failures. The minister must act, and he must account.”
RELATED VIDEO | NSFAS board resignations trigger governance concerns
