New NSFAS administrator moves swiftly to engage institutions

Newly appointed NSFAS administrator, Professor Hlengani Mathebula, has hit the ground running with plans already underway to hold introductory courtesy meetings with institutions and higher education representative bodies next month.

Mathebula was appointed by Higher Education Minister, Buti Manamela, this week after placing the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) under administration amid ongoing governance and operational challenges.

His appointment comes at a critical time for the embattled scheme, which has faced mounting criticism over delayed payments, accommodation disputes and allegations of maladministration. He will serve as NSFAS administrator for two years, pending the appointment of a new board.

The move followed the resignation of two board members last week, including acting chairperson, Mugwena Maluleke, which left a leadership vacuum at the institution.

Mathebula brings more than 30 years of experience in governance, financial management, regulatory oversight and institutional leadership across both the public and private sectors.

The seasoned academic and administrator has also held senior positions at the South African Revenue Service (SARS), the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) and Absa.

NSFAS spokesperson, Ismail Mnisi, says Mathebula is stepping into the role at a pivotal moment for both the organisation and the broader higher education and training sector.

“NSFAS is a cornerstone of South Africa’s commitment to social justice, as it provides access to higher education and training for young people from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.  For many families, NSFAS is the bridge between exclusion and opportunity. Its stability and integrity are essential for South Africa’s overall future.”

Mathebula now faces a plethora of challenges that need to be addressed after years of governance issues, including delays in distributing funding to students.

NSFAS has outlined key priorities for Mathebula, including strengthening governance and internal controls, addressing audit and consequence-management weaknesses, accelerating ICT and systems integration reforms, stabilising student funding operations and enhancing oversight of student accommodation.

Key Messages I Minister @ButiManamela‘s media briefing on developments at the National Student Financial Aid Scheme.#DHET#NSFAS2026#AccountabilityInAction pic.twitter.com/fJNi4zxFBh

— HigherEducationZA (@HigherEduGovZA) May 5, 2026