Question NW314 to the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
28 February 2023 - NW314
Tambo, Mr S to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
Whether, in view of continued reports and images of prospective students at institutions of higher learning sleeping outside in long lines awaiting placement at residences and within the post-secondary schooling system (details furnished), his department has a mechanism where those within institutions who practice the corrupt activity resulting in these situations are punished; if not, why not; if so, what (a) mechanism and (b) are the sanctions?
Reply:
In accordance with the Higher Education Act (Act 101 of 1997) as amended, universities are required to develop rules and policies that, amongst others, regulate provision of accommodation to students. Allocation of beds at universities should therefore be undertaken in accordance with university policies and processes.
Universities should, in accordance with their policies, place several students in both first year and continuing categories who have applied for accommodation spaces, in university owned/managed residences and where necessary in accredited private accommodation. Where necessary universities have also adopted a leasing approach. Some institutions (both universities and TVET colleges) have a challenge of accommodation, where the areas the campuses are located have no suitable accommodation that can be accredited or leased for placement of students. These institutions have applied for a deviation from the NSFAS Eligibility Criteria and Conditions for NSFAS funded students. The deviation, where approved, will allow students who need accommodation to reside in accommodation that is not yet accredited and assisted with allowances. This may explain why students are without accommodation.
However, universities have also indicated that some students do not apply for accommodation in advance but arrive at the institution and demand accommodation. Universities have prepared spaces for such emergencies and students are allocated temporary beds until their registration is finalized.
I have not received any official complaints about corrupt activities that involve allocation of accommodation to students. If any illegal activity is reported to the Department, we have a process in place to get reports from universities and ensure that matters such as these are dealt with adequately and those found guilty are punished.
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Director-General sign Parliamentary Question 314.
DR NKOSINATHI SISHI
DIRECTOR–GENERAL: HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING
DATE:
PARLIAMENTARY REPLY 314 IS APPROVED / NOT APPROVED / AMENDED.
COMMENT/S
DR BE NZIMANDE, MP
MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND INNOVATION
DATE: