NSFAS tightens security measures to curb fraud
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) says it's trying to reduce the number of fraudulent applications it receives.
It has turned to the South Africa Revenue Service, the Department of Home Affairs and the State Security Agency for help.
"NSFAS has partnered with other entities that help us further authenticate the data that we receive. This is as a response to fraudulent applications that NSFAS received for a long time," says NSFAS chairperson Ernest Khosa.
Khosa briefed the media on Monday on their current state of affairs.
READ: Universities SA concerned over Nsfas payment changes
He's revealed that two months ago, more than R5 billion was paid to students who weren't supposed to be awarded funding.
NSFAS confirmed, in June, that beneficiaries will receive monthly allowances via its bank card.
So far, 86% of students on NSFAS have successfully authenticated themselves.
"It is only fair for NSFAS to ensure that our authentication process is fair, effective, and we do not find ourselves funding ghost students," said Khosa.
He has urged students to verify all their details to avoid payment delays.
