The forum has cited several long-standing issues within the student accommodation sector as the reason for its action. According to the FSSAPF, a number of key problems require immediate attention. 

These include what the forum describes as a lack of accountability from both Training Young Minds (TYM) and Motheo TVET regarding student onboarding and assignment processes. The forum also highlighted outstanding payments for 2024 and 2025, as well as the non-issuance of offer letters for properties that were inspected in 2024 and early 2025.

Other concerns raised include the unilateral removal of students from landlord lists without communication and an alleged abuse of power that prevents accommodation providers from directly recruiting prospective tenants.

To address these issues, the FSSAPF has presented a list of demands to NSFAS and other relevant stakeholders. The forum is calling for an urgent joint meeting between NSFAS senior management, Motheo TVET management, TYM, the office of the education MEC, and senior management from the department of higher education and training.

“The immediate removal of Motheo TVET personnel from handling backend functions of the NSFAS-TYM portal, including student allocations,” stated Free State Student AP Forum Executive, Siphe Zenani.

Thorough investigation needed

The FSSAPF is also demanding the immediate removal of Motheo TVET personnel from handling the backend functions of the NSFAS-TYM portal, including student allocations. 

It seeks a thorough investigation into the Motheo TVET NSFAS-TYM student accommodation onboarding and assigning process, as well as the urgent issuance of offer letters to accommodation providers.

These demands are reasonable and necessary to ensure a functional and efficient student accommodation system in the Free State, it said. The FSSAPF has scheduled a meeting today (27/8) at 09:00-17:00 at the Premier Splendid Inn in Bloemfontein to further discuss the situation.

OFM News/Refilwe Bekane mvh