After a recent protest at Westcol’s Krugersdorp CBD campus over students not receiving their bursaries, the college has issued a response.

The college’s communications and marketing manager, Salome du Toit, said they acknowledge and respect the rights of students to raise their concerns.

“While students are entitled to engage in peaceful protest, they also have a responsibility to uphold the rights of others. Students who choose not to participate in such protests may not be coerced or forcibly removed from classes, and staff members must not be threatened or compelled to vacate their duties. The college’s management remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students and staff,” she said.

• Read the initial article here: Westcol students protest over non-payment of NSFAS funding

She explained that the National Student Funding Scheme (NSFAS) is responsible for paying allocated money to the students, where students apply directly to NSFAS for a bursary.

“Due to the complexity of the NSFAS system, delays may be experienced. Students can contact NSFAS for clarification or can be assisted on campus by a bursary official.”

The college has become aware of the plight of a small portion of 61 students whose allowance was unfortunately paid directly to the college.

“This group of students were contacted to submit their banking details, and payments were already made to 34 students. The college processed payments on Monday [September 15] for the seven students who provided their banking details by September 12. We are awaiting the banking information from the remaining 20 students, and their payments will be issued promptly upon submission,” she concluded.