During a meeting between NSFAS and Free State Premier - Sisi Ntombela - and her Executive Council (EXCO) yesterday, NSFAS assured benefits would be available to beneficiaries through local municipalities.

Moreover, NSFAS proposed a summit to provide access to opportunities and engage students on how NSFAS can better support them. EXCO approved hosting the summit, indicating Ntombela's office would spearhead a task-force to address poverty, inequality, and unemployment.

Free State University SRC President, Luvuyo Jacobs, tells OFM News there are many policies put in place, and commitments made by the University.

“The year is ending and there are still students who do not have funding, and are living in accommodations that are not accredited and well maintained.”

Meanwhile, a student anonymously claims there are still students who have been negatively affected by NSFAS’ malfunctioning registration portal.

There are reportedly students who still have issues with outstanding fees that NSFAS has yet to settle.

OFM News/Bambatha Giko