In a recent development, the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has been tracking down thousands of tertiary students who have illegally benefitted from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)[1]. The SIU, an independent statutory body in South Africa, is tasked with investigating maladministration, corruption, and irregularities in government departments and public entities[10].
In its ongoing investigation, the SIU has already recovered R33 million from a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college as part of its probe into corruption at NSFAS[1]. The investigative unit is currently calculating interest earned from the investment and will require the interest to be paid into the SIU trust account[1].
The SIU conducts its investigations in ten steps, which include receiving allegations from whistleblowers, government departments, or entities that are suspicious of corruption[2]. The unit has investigated several other high-profile cases, such as contracts awarded during the COVID-19 pandemic, uncovering irregularities in 62% of the finalised investigations[3].
The SIU’s ongoing efforts in combating corruption and irregularities in various government departments and public entities highlight its commitment to transparency and accountability in South Africa.