PRETORIA - The Public Protector has called on the Minister of Higher Education, the Finance Minister and the South African Revenue Service to work together.
Public Protector Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka says the three parties need to find a better benchmarking model for NSFAS.
This follows an investigation by the Public Protector's office into the financial aid scheme, which began in 2021.
READ: 40,000 students improperly received NSFAS funding - report
The investigation cited findings by the Special Investigating Unit that more than 40,000 students across 76 institutions were improperly funded.
The improper funding cost NSFAS R5.1-billion.
These findings prompted the Public Protector to conduct a deeper probe into the student funder. The office also received complaints from several higher education organisations.
"We have evidence that NSFAS has failed to execute its mandate," said Gcaleka.
"It has left many students destitute."
Unsettled accounts have also forced higher education institutions to withhold academic qualifications from graduating students.
READ: Advisors' pay bonanza, suspension, instability: NSFAS told to get its house in order
The problems have been compounded by persistent administrative inefficiencies, including delays in funding confirmations and allowance payments.
Gcaleka has yet to release her final report.
She has also launched a proactive follow-up investigation into irregularities involving student accommodation and housing.
- Read more: NSFAS faces R15bn student-funding gap