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NSFAS Under Administration: Hlengani Mathebula Leads Governance Reform

NSFAS Under Administration: Hlengani Mathebula Leads Governance Reform

NSFAS Under Administration: Hlengani Mathebula Leads Governance Reform

By Echos News Editorial Team
Published: May 5, 2026

Minister Buti Manamela’s Intervention

The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela, announced that the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has been placed under administration. This decision follows prolonged governance instability, audit failures, and operational breakdowns that undermined the credibility of South Africa’s higher education funding system.

Why NSFAS Was Placed Under Administration

  • Audit Failures: The Auditor-General flagged material irregularities and issued a disclaimer audit outcome for 2024/25.
  • Governance Instability: Board resignations, including the chairperson, left the institution unable to function effectively.
  • Operational Breakdowns: ICT delays, unresolved student appeals, and failures in student accommodation oversight.
  • Public Confidence: Concerns about NSFAS managing billions in public funds responsibly.

Appointment of Professor Hlengani Mathebula

Professor Hlengani Mathebula, former South African Reserve Bank and revenue service executive, has been appointed as administrator. He brings extensive governance, financial, and institutional leadership experience. His mandate includes:

  • Stabilising governance structures
  • Addressing audit failures
  • Fixing ICT systems
  • Improving student funding operations
  • Resolving appeals backlogs
  • Strengthening institutional controls

Impact on Students

Minister Manamela assured students that funding and allowances will continue uninterrupted. Universities and TVET colleges will maintain operational engagement with NSFAS. The intervention is aimed at restoring stability, not disrupting services.

Broader Implications for Higher Education

NSFAS remains central to South Africa’s democratic project, enabling access to higher education for poor and working-class households. Instability at NSFAS has ripple effects across universities, communities, and the fiscus. Restoring accountability is therefore critical to advancing social justice.

Looking Ahead

Professor Mathebula’s leadership will be closely watched as he attempts to rebuild trust in NSFAS. His success will determine whether the institution can continue to serve as a cornerstone of equitable access to education in South Africa.

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