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By Lebone Rodah Mosima
Employees of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) have opened a theft case against a former board member accused of stealing 10 laptops intended for under-resourced schools in the Eastern Cape.
NSFAS said on Thursday that the former board member, who led the scheme’s delegation during the Eastern Cape Donation Drive in March 2026, allegedly kept the laptops instead of delivering them to the designated schools.
A total of 30 laptops had been earmarked for distribution to six high schools, with each school due to receive five laptops for communal use.
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“There were 30 laptops earmarked for distribution to six high schools, with each receiving five laptops for communal use,” NSFAS said.
NSFAS administrator Professor Hlengani Mathebula said he was shocked that a board member of an organisation tasked with supporting financially disadvantaged students was allegedly responsible for such conduct.
“I am pleased that NSFAS employees have decided to pursue justice on behalf of the voiceless learners. Criminality can only thrive when witnesses turn a blind eye to such matters,” Mathebula said.
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He said the organisation should be associated only with leaders and employees of integrity, warning that corruption has a devastating impact on young people.
“This act by our colleagues is exemplary. It testifies to the fact that we are turning the corner as an organisation, as employees are reclaiming their organisation from the grubby hands of those who have been manipulating it for their own self-enrichment while our children suffered the indignity wrought by poverty,” he said.
“Children from impoverished backgrounds need all the help they can get from all of us.”
Mathebula said he was appalled that someone in a position of trust had allegedly stolen from children in need.
“It doesn’t get worse than that,” he said.
He expressed confidence that the South African Police Service (SAPS) would investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure justice for the intended beneficiaries.
The post Former NSFAS board member accused of stealing 10 laptops meant for Eastern Cape schools appeared first on Inside Education..
