NSFAS R15 Billion Shortfall

NSFAS running into a structural funding gap of about R15 billion, driven by rising demand for student funding while government allocations have not increased at the same pace. Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela has warned that government may have to reconsider how “free higher education” is funded if the gap continues growing. NSFAS approved funding for more than 660,000 students in 2026. NSFAS is facing an estimated R15 billion funding shortfall, raising serious concerns about the sustainability of South Africa’s fee-free higher education policy. Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela has warned that the growing number of students entering universities and TVET colleges is putting increasing pressure on the state’s ability to fund student financial aid. GUEST: Tebogo Letsie, Chair of Portfolio Commission on Higher Education