Student accommodation service providers across South Africa say they are facing growing financial pressure due to delayed payments from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), placing both landlords and students in a precarious position.
Private accommodation providers who house NSFAS-funded students report that late and incomplete payments have disrupted cash flow, making it difficult to cover basic operational costs such as utilities, security and bond repayments. Some landlords say they are owed funds dating back to previous academic years.
The delays have also affected students, with reports of eviction threats and restricted access to residences emerging at several institutions. Providers argue that while they are expected to continue housing students, the lack of predictable payments is unsustainable.
NSFAS has attributed the delays to verification and compliance processes, including incomplete documentation and invalid claims. However, sector representatives warn that without urgent intervention, the ongoing uncertainty could further destabilise student accommodation and disrupt the academic year.
By
Dr Sefoko Ramoshaba
www.sjli.co.za
064 709 2097
