(a) The Department plays no role in developing internal capacity of NSFAS. Section 9 of the NSFAS Act (No.56 of 1999) refers to the appointment of employee. It states that the board is responsible for the appointment of the Executive Officer who will manage and administer the affairs of the NSFAS under the authority of the board, and perform the functions determined by the board.
(b) The Minister has requested NSFAS to furnish him with a turn-around plan, which includes, amongst others, improving capacity of the entity. Thus far, NSFAS reported that it has appointed a COO who will advise the board on the long-term strategy of disbursement of allowances.