With only days remaining before the closure of applications for National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding for the 2027 academic year, the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Mr Buti Manamela, will on Saturday lead a major NSFAS Application Outreach Drive in George, Western Cape, aimed at assisting prospective students to submit their applications before the deadline.
The outreach initiative forms part of a nationwide effort by the Department of Higher Education and Training and NSFAS to ensure that no eligible student is excluded from accessing post-school education and training opportunities because of a lack of information, connectivity, documentation support or application assistance.
Hosted at Thembalethu High School, the drive comes on the final day for NSFAS applications and is expected to attract learners, parents, guardians and prospective students seeking assistance to access funding opportunities for university and TVET college studies in 2027.
During the outreach programme, Minister Manamela will engage with learners and parents, observe live demonstrations of the NSFAS online application process and receive updates on application trends and support interventions being implemented to reach prospective beneficiaries.
NSFAS officials will be available throughout the day to assist applicants with completing and submitting applications, resolving application challenges and accessing information on funding opportunities for the 2027 academic year. Representatives from the post-school education and training sector, including TVET colleges, will also provide information on available study opportunities and institutional programmes.
Members of the media are invited to cover this outreach drive as government intensifies efforts to ensure that no eligible prospective student misses the opportunity to apply for NSFAS funding ahead of the closing deadline.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, 31 October 2026
Time: 08:30 – 14:00
Venue: Thembalethu High School, Thembalethu, George, Western Cape
Prospective students unable to attend the outreach drive may still submit their applications online at www.nsfas.org.za before the closing deadline.
Rsvp: Mahlatse Galane on
Cell:082 803 5732
Enquiries:
Cornelius Monama
Spokesperson: Department of Higher Education and Training
Cell: 082 578 49063
Matshepo Seedat
Spokesperson to the Minister of Higher Education and Training
Cell:082 679 9473
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