Dozens of students affiliated to the EFF student command protested outside the Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Steve Biko campus on Thursday, accusing management of not coming down hard on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
The student wing’s deputy chairperson Thando Magagula said their pleas for management to intervene in the introduction of the online banking system eZaga for NSFAS students fell on deaf ears.
“The system does not have capacity to service the students of DUT. That is why we [have] these problems,’’ said Magagula.
On Monday their branch received an “uninspiring response” from management after last month’s protests.
In the response, seen by TimesLIVE, the university said most students finalised their registration with eZaga and are waiting for the allowances.
It said those found to have dual funding were defunded and while eZaga representatives are on campus they have power over eZaga challenges.
The students burnt tyres before the arrival of police officers.
“The management has been arrogant about this. Some students have not received their allowance. Others are receiving it in small tranches,” said Magagula.
More than 17,000 students rely on the funding scheme.
“Our students are hungry and can’t attend lectures. What we have done today [Thursday] has been peaceful,” said Magagula.
The DUT didn't respond to queries.
TimesLIVE
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