By: Bright Ntuli
Universities South Africa (USAf) has welcomed the comprehensive plan presented by Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela to address long-standing challenges in the post-school education and training sector.
The minister has pledged to stabilise the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and develop a new, sustainable funding model for the sector. His commitment comes amid growing concerns over the financial and structural pressures facing universities and technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges.
USAf CEO Dr Phethiwe Matutu said Minister Manamela’s proposals have brought renewed hope to a sector grappling with complex challenges, many of which are beyond its control. She emphasised the importance of long-term planning, accountability and collaboration between government and institutions.
The minister’s plan follows months of student protests, funding shortfalls and administrative failures at NSFAS, which have disrupted the academic year across several institutions.
