DUT students face financial turmoil

NSFAS’ LATE PAYMENT

- KAREN SINGH [e-mail]

THE START of the academic year at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) has been marred by severe financial strain for numerous students reliant on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), as delays in the payment of living allowances stretch into the third week of classes.

The late payments have left many students struggling to afford necessities such as food, transport, and essential learning materials, jeopardising their academic success and personal well-being.

Classes at DUT officially commenced on February 9, but for many NSFAS beneficiaries, the expected allowance has failed to materialise.

A returning third-year student in the Faculty of Art and Design, who requested anonymity, described a grim reality that mirrors the challenges faced last year, when allowances were only received in March.

“We normally receive our NSFAS allowance during the second week after returning to campus,” the student explained. “However, almost three weeks into the month, we had not received our allowance.”

For this particular student, the delay means she cannot purchase the materials required for her coursework.

“Without the necessary materials, I cannot complete the expected work. I also need transport money because I attend two campuses that are far from each other. Walking between them is unsafe due to the areas I must pass through in Durban,” she stated.