- NSFAS policy changes, including an accommodation cap, are leaving many Cape Town students in financial distress.
- UCT graduate Chulumanco Stokwe is appealing for public support to overcome R50,000 debt and achieve her dream of becoming a lawyer.
- Rising living costs and reduced funding are increasing the challenges for students across the Western Cape.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has introduced several policy changes, including a contentious accommodation cap, now impacting students across the Western Cape.
While NSFAS continues to provide financial assistance, many students are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet due to rising living costs and policy restrictions.
One such student is Chulumanco Stokwe (23), who is set to receive her LLB degree from the University of Cape Town (UCT).
Despite successfully completing her studies, she is unable to graduate or access her transcript because of an outstanding debt of R50 000, by the NSFAS accommodation cap implemented in previous years.
“Becoming a lawyer has been my dream for as long as I can remember. I’m passionate about advocating for justice, protecting human rights, and making a positive impact on my community,” Stokwe said.
Fundraising
She credited NSFAS for making her education possible, but acknowledged that balancing part-time work, extracurriculars and academics was a major challenge. Now, the debt she faced threatened her future in law.
Stokwe has launched a fundraising campaign, appealing to the public for help. “Your contribution, no matter how big or small, will bring me closer to achieving my dream of becoming a qualified lawyer. Your support will not only help me overcome this hurdle but also inspire others to pursue their academic goals.”
The NSFAS accommodation cap, introduced in 2023 and continuing this year, limits annual accommodation funding to R50 000 per student. While the policy aims to curb rising accommodation expenses and encourage institutions to negotiate fair rental prices, critics argue that the cap is unrealistic, especially in high-cost urban areas like Cape Town.
“The NSFAS cap might seem like a solution on paper,” said a representative from UCT’s financial aid office, who requested anonymity. “But in reality it leaves students scrambling to find affordable accommodation or deal with debt after completing their studies.”
Beneficiaries
The Western Cape has a significant number of NSFAS beneficiaries, with nearly 17 000 students in the province applying for financial aid this year. However, students report that the combined pressure of high living costs and reduced support is creating new challenges.
“Cape Town is an expensive city, and even with NSFAS support students are struggling,” said social activist Ntobeko Skweyiya. He pointed out that financial stress had contributed to food insecurity and rising mental-health concerns among students.
In a statement, UCT acknowledged that it is currently facing significant challenges due to reduced NSFAS support. “The policy changes have resulted in a R110 million shortfall, contributing to a total student debt of R200 million in 2024,” the statement read.
Students such as Stokwe remain hopeful that public support will help them overcome these financial hurdles.
As the debate around the NSFAS accommodation cap continues, many students are resorting to creative solutions such as part-time jobs, personal fundraising and public appeals.
To support Stokwe in her journey to becoming a qualified lawyer, you can contact her on 063 450 7139.
