NSFAS Chair Resigns Over Alleged Bullying and Racism: Minister Manamela Calls Urgent Meetin

A leadership storm has once again hit South Africa’s higher education sector, as National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) chairperson Dr Karen Stander tendered her resignation amid explosive claims of bullying, racism, intimidation, and threats to her personal safety.

A Crisis at the Heart of Student Funding

The resignation letter, addressed directly to Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela, has sent ripples through the education community. Dr Stander’s allegations point to deep-rooted internal dysfunction within NSFAS, the body responsible for funding the studies of nearly one million South African students each year.

According to the Department of Higher Education, an urgent meeting between Manamela and Stander was scheduled for Monday, with a broader NSFAS board meeting to follow later in the week. Ministry spokesperson Matshepo Seedat confirmed that Manamela viewed the allegations as “deeply concerning” and intended to “engage thoroughly before determining the necessary course of action.”

Public Reaction and Political Pressure

The public response has been swift, with many South Africans taking to social media to demand transparency and accountability. On X the hashtag #NSFASCrisis trended on Monday morning, as students and activists questioned how such alleged misconduct could occur within an institution tasked with supporting vulnerable learners.

“NSFAS is supposed to empower students, not become a battleground for power and intimidation,” wrote one user, echoing the frustration of many who depend on the scheme for their education.

A History of Scandals

This latest scandal adds to a long list of controversies that have plagued NSFAS in recent yearsfrom delayed student payments and tender irregularities to boardroom instability and IT system failures. Stander’s departure marks the third high-profile leadership exit from NSFAS since 2023, underscoring persistent governance challenges.

Analysts suggest that Stander’s resignation could trigger a broader review of leadership culture within public institutions, particularly where political oversight and administrative independence often collide.

What Comes Next

Minister Manamela’s response to this crisis will be closely watched. While his office has pledged a thorough investigation, students and the public are calling for swift action to ensure stability at the fund.

For many young South Africans, the question is not just about who leads NSFASbut whether the institution can still be trusted to serve those who need it most.

As one university student put it online, “We don’t just need new leaders. We need NSFAS to start working for students again.”

{Source:EWN}

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