NSFAS opens theft case after laptops meant for Eastern Cape learners allegedly go missing

A donation initiative aimed at helping learners in some of the Eastern Cape’s under-resourced schools has instead become the subject of a criminal investigation after the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) opened a theft case against one of its former board members.

The case was opened on Thursday after NSFAS employees reported that ten laptops intended for schools during the organisation’s Eastern Cape Donation Drive in March 2026 were allegedly never delivered.

According to NSFAS, the donation programme was designed to provide 30 laptops to six high schools, with each school receiving five devices for shared educational use.

However, the organisation alleges that ten of those laptops were retained by the former board member who led the delegation instead of reaching their intended beneficiaries.

A loss that extends beyond missing equipment

For many schools in rural and economically disadvantaged communities, access to computers remains limited. Shared devices often become vital learning tools, allowing learners to complete research, improve digital literacy and prepare for a technology-driven future.

The disappearance of ten laptops therefore represents more than missing equipment. It potentially deprives dozens of learners of resources that could have supported classroom learning and skills development.

NSFAS Chairperson Professor Hlengani Mathebula strongly condemned the alleged conduct, saying it was particularly disturbing that someone entrusted with serving vulnerable communities could be linked to such allegations.

He praised NSFAS employees for reporting the matter to authorities, describing their actions as an important step towards accountability and ethical leadership within the organisation.

NSFAS says accountability is essential

Mathebula said organisations tasked with supporting young people should be represented by leaders who uphold the highest ethical standards.

He added that the willingness of staff members to report the matter demonstrated a shift towards greater transparency within NSFAS and reflected a commitment to protecting the institution’s integrity.

According to Mathebula, corruption and misconduct ultimately hurt the country’s youth, especially learners from disadvantaged backgrounds who depend on public institutions to deliver opportunities rather than disappointments.

He also described it as deeply troubling that educational resources intended for children living in poverty could allegedly be diverted for personal gain.

Police investigation expected

NSFAS has not publicly identified the former board member named in the criminal complaint.

The matter has now been handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS), which is expected to investigate the allegations.

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