SASCO takes to the streets, marching to the Department of Higher Education, urging the allocation of monthly NSFAS allowance
The South African Student Congress MEGA Tshwane (SASCO) organised a peaceful march to the Department of Higher Education and Training to demand an end to NSFAS contracts with companies like Ezaga, Norraco, Coinvest, and Tenet, which they believe exploit students.
SASCO is also demanding the resignation of Blade Nzimande, the Minister of Higher Education, citing his alleged benefit from contracts awarded to companies responsible for student funds.
With April meal allowances withheld, the financial hardships faced by students intensified, heightening the urgency of their call for justice.
Students turned out in force, aiming to make this march a historic event. They are hoping that NSFAS will provide answers before Monday, as students have been suffering from hunger, and classes have been canceled until the Department of Higher Education and Training takes the necessary action to address students’ needs.
Siphosakhe Ngunze, SASCO Provincial Secretary, expressed his views, suggesting that the Minister may be out of touch, stuck in the mindset of the 1960s or 1950s when he was a student. However, Ngunze emphasized that times have changed, with a new generation now advocating for different educational concepts and demands.
“He still seems to be stuck in the 1950s mindset, which is a misconception. Therefore, it’s crucial to integrate young perspectives within the Ministry’s office, particularly in the Higher Education department. This department plays a pivotal role as it nurtures the intellectual core of South Africans.”
“The Minister needs to open up to new ideas and let intellect keep pushing for progress in our country and around the world,” said Nguze.
“We believe that their policies should include input from those who understand the current university environment. The old dictation acts and statutes need reviewing by people who are aware of what’s happening in the university right now,” Ngunze added.
“The student leadership from Tshwane University of Pretoria, Wits University, University of Johannesburg, and University of Limpopo jointly signed a memorandum. The memorandum stipulates that NSFAS should directly deposit students’ meal allowances into their bank accounts to prevent any glitches, ensuring that students receive their allowances without delay.”
Deputy President General and Tshwane Regional Chairperson, Welile Mazibuko, highlighted the gravity of the situation regarding financial institutions. “This is a serious issue, and its implications are concerning.
“We are currently experiencing problems with the rent payment system failing to deposit funds into students’ accounts,” Mazibuko stated.
“It’s not only a matter of system monitoring; our system isn’t user friendly for students. Some students receive data allocations, but others encounter difficulties transferring money into their bank accounts when they log in,” said Mazibuko.
“People are in positions, and the board is influenced by corrupt individuals who lack concern for the majority of black students in South Africa,” added Mazibuko.
Mazibuko further said that students will have to wait until Monday to see if there is any change, or if they will need to march again to the Union Buildings.
“We believe that our grievances will be taken seriously there, and perhaps then we can consider the march successful and claim victory in the struggle for the black child,” Mazibuko concluded