Marcus Moloko
To restore stability at the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), Minister of Higher Education Buti Manamela is expected to appoint a new chairperson to the NSFAS board on Monday.
This follows the recent resignation of Dr Karen Stander, who previously held the position.
The minister has initiated a self-review application in the High Court to regulate certain procedural shortcomings in the appointment process, which stemmed from legal advice received from the Department of Higher Education and Training.
The review aims to ensure that all governance and legal requirements were met during the NSFAS board’s formation.
According to a statement from the department: “The Minister is committed to transparency and accountability in public appointments”.
The department said the review was not an act of opposition to any legal challenge but rather a proactive step to uphold good governance.
“Importantly. The board remains in place and will continue to fulfil its duties until the court sets the decision aside. The functioning and structure of NSFAS will not be affected by this application, and student servicing will continue without disruption.”
The minister has also indicated that he will not oppose any legal action brought by affected individuals and will abide by the court’s decision.
Stander’s resignation has created a leadership vacuum at a time when NSFAS is under intense scrutiny over its operational and financial management. The appointment of a new chairperson is expected to signal a fresh chapter for the board, with renewed focus on compliance, oversight, and student-centered service delivery.
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