The National Skills Fund (NSF) acknowledges the public apology issued by Forek Institute of Technology regarding the delays in the payment of learner stipends under the 24-Month Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Project in Mpumalanga Province.
The NSF welcomes Forek Institute's acceptance of responsibility for the delays and its apology to affected learners, their families, and the Fund. Importantly, the NSF can confirm that all outstanding stipends owed to learners for the period January to March 2026 have now been paid in full. January 2026 stipends were paid on 2 May 2026, while the February and March 2026 stipends were paid on 5 June 2026.
The Fund appreciates the patience and resilience demonstrated by learners throughout this process. While the delays caused significant hardship and uncertainty for many learners, the NSF remained committed to ensuring that all affected beneficiaries received the support due to them.
In April 2026, the NSF publicly raised concerns regarding delayed stipend payments and financial non-compliance identified during its oversight processes. The Fund subsequently implemented consequence management measures and engaged extensively with the implementing provider to ensure accountability and the protection of public funds.
"The payment of all outstanding stipends is a welcome outcome for the affected learners and their families. While the delays should never have occurred, we acknowledge Forek Institute's public apology and corrective action. Throughout this process, the NSF's priority has been to protect learners, uphold accountability, and ensure the responsible management of public resources," said NSF Acting CEO, Ms Melissa Erra.
The NSF has also welcomed feedback received from learners following the resolution of the matter. Writing on behalf of learners and graduates who participated in the programme, beneficiary representative Ms Sebenzile Nozizwe expressed appreciation to the NSF and all stakeholders involved in the initiative.
"While the journey was not without challenges and the payment process took longer than many of us had anticipated, it is important to acknowledge that the commitment made to learners was ultimately honoured. For that, we are truly grateful," she said.
Ms Nozizwe further highlighted that the programme provided learners with valuable workplace exposure, practical experience, mentorship, and skills that have contributed significantly to their personal and professional growth.
"The impact of this opportunity extends far beyond financial support. It has helped shape our future and prepared us to contribute meaningfully to our communities and the economy," she added.
The NSF is encouraged by these sentiments, which reflect the broader purpose of the Work Integrated Learning Programme: creating opportunities for young graduates to gain meaningful workplace experience and improve their prospects for sustainable employment.
The Fund will continue to monitor the close-out of the project and ensure compliance with all contractual, financial, and governance requirements. The NSF remains committed to strengthening oversight, enforcing accountability among implementing partners, and safeguarding the interests of learners across all NSF-funded programmes.
The NSF wishes all learners continued success following their completion of their workplace learning journey in March 2026 and congratulates those who received permanent or contract positions where they carried their workplace learning and pursue meaningful participation in the economy
Enquiries:
Email: MediaEnquiries@nsf.org.za
