Eastern Cape High Court: Former NSFAS Board Member Laptops Theft

• NSFAS has opened a case of theft against a former board member who allegedly stole laptops meant for under-resourced schools.
• The incident highlights the importance of implementing robust internal controls and oversight mechanisms to prevent abuse of power by employees.
• The South African Police Service is investigating the case, with NSFAS Administrator Professor Hlengani Mathebula expressing full confidence in their ability to secure justice.
• The theft has sparked concerns about the lack of accountability within educational institutions and government-funded schemes.

It is therefore appalling to learn that someone used his position of privilege, being a board member, to steal from the same needy children. It does not get worse than that

The National Student Fund Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has opened a case of theft against a former board member, who allegedly stole laptops earmarked for under-resourced schools in the Eastern Cape. The incident occurred during the Eastern Cape Donation Drive in March 2026, when the board member was leading the scheme's delegation. According to NSFAS, 30 laptops were meant for distribution to six high schools, with each receiving five laptops for communal use. Instead, the former board member kept ten laptops for themselves.

The theft has sparked concerns about the lack of internal controls and oversight mechanisms within NSFAS, allowing an employee in a position of trust to abuse their power. This development highlights the importance of implementing robust internal controls and oversight mechanisms to prevent such incidents in the future.

The case has been handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for investigation, with NSFAS Administrator Professor Hlengani Mathebula expressing full confidence in their ability to secure justice for the intended beneficiaries. The SAPS will need to gather evidence and interview witnesses to build a case against the former board member. This process is expected to be thorough and transparent, given the high-profile nature of the case.

The theft of laptops from NSFAS is a serious offense, punishable under South African law. The incident has raised questions about the accountability of employees in positions of trust within educational institutions and government-funded schemes.

The theft of laptops from under-resourced schools in the Eastern Cape is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by vulnerable communities. The NSFAS was established to alleviate hardships from economically deprived communities, and it is appalling that one of its own employees would be responsible for such an act. The incident highlights the need for organisations to implement robust internal controls and oversight mechanisms to prevent abuse of power by employees.

The case also underscores the importance of community involvement in holding institutions accountable for their actions. NSFAS's employees have taken a stand against corruption, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, individuals can make a difference when they work together.

This development highlights the importance for organisations to implement robust internal controls and oversight mechanisms to prevent abuse of power by employees, particularly those in positions of trust.

Source: Original reporting via SAnews.gov.za