The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has dismissed a viral social media claim alleging that a student received a payment of more than R630,000 from the scheme, describing the post as false and misleading.
NSFAS said it had investigated the circulating image which allegedly shows a payment of R630,434.44 to a student and confirmed that the claim does not reflect any legitimate transaction within its system.
“The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has noted with concern a social media post alleging that a student received a payment of R630,434.44 from the Scheme. This claim is false and misleading,” the organisation said.
According to NSFAS, preliminary checks revealed that the image shared online had been manipulated and likely generated using artificial intelligence tools.
“Preliminary verification indicates that the image circulating online is manipulated and appears to be AI-generated and does not correspond with any legitimate NSFAS transaction. No such payment has been made by NSFAS.”
The scheme added that the student responsible for the post appeared to have created the content to gain attention on social media platforms.
“The student in question created this content for social media purposes, likely to gain traction as part of content creation opportunities on platforms,” NSFAS said.
NSFAS further clarified that its funding model does not allow for large lump-sum payments to be made directly to students.
“Funding allocations are paid directly to universities, which then administer approved student allowances in accordance with established funding guidelines,” the scheme said.
The organisation also sought to reassure beneficiaries and institutions that its financial systems remain secure.
“We want to assure students, institutions, and the public that NSFAS systems remain secure and there has been no irregular payment or breach associated with this claim,” NSFAS said.
The scheme warned that it could pursue legal action against individuals who intentionally spread misinformation about its operations.
“The creation and circulation of false or misleading information that misrepresents NSFAS operations is taken seriously. NSFAS reserves the right to pursue appropriate legal action against individuals who deliberately create or distribute misinformation that harms the reputation and integrity of the Scheme.”
NSFAS urged the public to rely only on its official communication platforms for verified information.
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