TUT Students Deliver Demands to DHET Over Ongoing NSFAS Crisis
BY: Bandile Mbango
x: @Bandilekamo
Email: bandilekamogelo7@gmail.com
Students from the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) marched to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) in Pretoria on Monday morning the 19th of May 2025 to demand urgent intervention in what they describe as a deepening crisis within the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
Organised by the Campus Student Representative Council (CSRC) in collaboration with all recognised political student structures, the protest drew students from the Pretoria, Arts, and Arcadia campuses. The march began at 09:00 and proceeded peacefully to the DHET offices, where students submitted a memorandum outlining their grievances.
The memorandum, received by DHET officials, highlighted widespread dissatisfaction with how NSFAS is being administered. Key concerns raised included the unexplained defunding of students, lack of support for TVET and Higher Certificate programme students, and the continued exclusion of those affected by the N+ Rule, which cuts off funding for students who exceed the allowed number of years in their programmes. Students also expressed frustration over the erratic distribution of meal allowances, delays in the appeal process, and challenges faced by those transferring from other institutions.
Despite the fiery tone of the protest, the memorandum handover was conducted peacefully. Officials from the DHET accepted the document and assured the students that the department would review the issues raised. A representative speaking on behalf of DHET acknowledged the gravity of the situation and promised a formal response within seven working days.
While some students welcomed this commitment, many remained skeptical, citing a long history of unfulfilled promises from authorities. Several students expressed concerns that the government’s failure to address these problems in a timely manner is threatening their academic futures and mental well-being.
“We are tired of being ignored. These issues are not new, yet year after year students suffer while the system fails to deliver. We came here because education is a right, not a privilege reserved for those who can afford to pay out of pocket,” said Blessing Mathibe Chairperson of YCLSA
Following the rally, a representative from the Department addressed the crowd briefly, acknowledging the students’ demands and assuring them that their concerns would be reviewed. “We have heard the voices of the students. The Department will take time to go through the memorandum thoroughly and respond accordingly within the timeframe provided,” the official stated, offering a cautious but firm commitment to addressing the issues raised during the rally.
“I was kicked out of my student accommodation because NSFAS suddenly stopped funding me. I don’t have a place to stay anymore. My parents are unemployed and struggling, but now they must beg and borrow just to help me find a place to sleep,” said Sanelisiwe Mthembu, a visibly distressed TUT student.
The CSRC has vowed to monitor the department’s response and warned that further action could follow if students’ concerns are not addressed satisfactorily. For now, the ball is in the court of the Department of Higher Education and Training.
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