In a major update welcomed by thousands of South African students, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has officially confirmed that May payouts are underway. This announcement comes after several weeks of tension and campus disruptions caused by widespread student protests over delayed payments and funding uncertainties.
The confirmation follows days of mounting frustration across the country, where university and TVET college students took to the streets demanding clarity and urgent financial relief. Many students had gone without essential allowances—money they depend on for rent, food, transportation, and other living expenses.
Protests Spark Urgent Action
Campuses in provinces like Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape experienced heightened unrest earlier this month. Demonstrations at institutions such as the University of Johannesburg, Durban University of Technology, and the Cape Peninsula University of Technology highlighted the severe impact delayed NSFAS payments had on students’ academic and personal lives.
At the heart of the protests were concerns over the new direct payment system introduced by NSFAS, which some students claimed had led to administrative backlogs and miscommunications. Many reported being excluded from the payment list without clear reasons, despite having previously qualified for funding.
NSFAS Responds to Student Concerns
In a public statement released this week, NSFAS assured students that May payments had been processed and that most beneficiaries should start receiving their funds by mid-week.
“We acknowledge the challenges faced over the past few weeks and have worked around the clock with institutions to resolve payment issues. Our aim remains to support students so they can focus on their education,” the statement read.
The organization also clarified that improvements had been made to the new payment system to speed up verifications and minimize errors. NSFAS encouraged students who still had not received their funds to reach out through the official support channels.
Academic Disruptions and Campus Closures
The protests led to class suspensions and temporary closures at several campuses. University administrators, while expressing support for students’ right to protest, urged NSFAS to act swiftly to avoid further academic disruption.
“We are dealing with students who have nothing to eat, no transport money, and no roof over their heads. The delays are not just administrative—they are deeply human,” said one student leader from a Johannesburg campus.
Security was heightened at affected institutions, and some universities even moved exams and lectures online to avoid clashes between students and campus authorities.
Mixed Reactions from Students
While many students welcomed the confirmation of May payouts, others remained skeptical. Some reported they had yet to receive notification of payment, raising concerns that the solution may not be consistent across all campuses.
“There’s always a promise and then a delay,” said a final-year student at the University of Limpopo. “We just want to study and not stress about money every month.”
Others expressed hope that this time, NSFAS would follow through on its word and improve transparency going forward.
Looking Ahead
NSFAS has promised to publish regular updates on payment schedules and technical issues to build student trust. The Department of Higher Education and Training has also stepped in, urging NSFAS and institutions to work more closely to prevent future disruptions.
As of now, many students have begun receiving their allowances, but eyes remain on NSFAS to ensure that no student is left behind. The May payout saga has highlighted not only funding gaps but also the urgent need for more efficient systems to support South Africa’s future workforce.
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Bottom Line:
After weeks of protests and pressure, NSFAS has confirmed that May payouts are in motion. While the announcement brings some relief, the true test will be whether all students receive their funds on time—and whether the system can avoid similar chaos in the months to come.
