SIU flags R8.3mln bursary funding irregularities in Free State

Acting SIU Head, Leonard Lekgetho.

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has revealed that R8.3 million in bursary funding was allocated by the Free State Office of the Premier without following proper processes.

Acting SIU Head, Leonard Lekgetho, says some bursaries were awarded to foreign nationals, relatives of government officials and individuals who did not qualify.

The investigation further found that officials approved bursaries negligently and failed to exercise adequate oversight.

Lekgetho says in one case, a student who had failed a degree continued receiving bursary funding for seven years.

“But the bursary contracts were never terminated by the office of the premier and continued from a 3-year contract to a seven-year contract, meaning that the degree, which was supposed to be finalised in 3 years, ended up being finalised in 7 years. And through the 7 years, the bursary was awarded. Some applications received a bursary or qualifications not part of the 2018/2019 provincial workspace skills plan. In some instances, the required process was not followed before the approval of the bursaries.”

#SIUWorkingForYou| Today, the SIU held a media briefing on its investigation into the Office of the Premier in the Free State, revealing maladministration, unauthorised bursaries, and irregular expenditure. Full report available here: pic.twitter.com/58O4Dai73Q

— Special Investigating Unit (SIU) (@RSASIU) June 2, 2026