FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WEDNESDAY, 10 JUNE 2026

The National Skills Fund (NSF) acknowledges the public apology issued by Forek
Institute of Technology regarding the delays in the payment of learner stipends under
the 24-Month Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Project in Mpumalanga Province.
The NSF welcomes Forek Institute’s acceptance of responsibility for the delays and
its apology to affected learners, their families, and the Fund.
Importantly, the NSF can confirm that all outstanding stipends owed to learners for the
period January to March 2026 have now been paid in full. January 2026 stipends were
paid on 2 May 2026, while the February and March 2026 stipends were paid on 5 June
2026.
The Fund appreciates the patience and resilience demonstrated by learners
throughout this process. While the delays caused significant hardship and uncertainty
for many learners, the NSF remained committed to ensuring that all affected
beneficiaries received the support due to them.
In April 2026, the NSF publicly raised concerns regarding delayed stipend payments
and financial non-compliance identified during its oversight processes. The Fund
subsequently implemented consequence management measures and engaged
extensively with the implementing provider to ensure accountability and the protection
of public funds.
“The payment of all outstanding stipends is a welcome outcome for the affected
learners and their families. While the delays should never have occurred, we
acknowledge Forek Institute’s public apology and corrective action. Throughout this
process, the NSF’s priority has been to protect learners, uphold accountability, and
ensure the responsible management of public resources,” said NSF Acting CEO, Ms
Melissa Erra.
The NSF has also welcomed feedback received from learners following the resolution
of the matter. Writing on behalf of learners and graduates who participated in the
programme, beneficiary representative Ms Sebenzile Nozizwe expressed appreciation
to the NSF and all stakeholders involved in the initiative.
“While the journey was not without challenges and the payment process took longer
than many of us had anticipated, it is important to acknowledge that the commitment
made to learners was ultimately honoured. For that, we are truly grateful,” she said.
Ms Nozizwe further highlighted that the programme provided learners with valuable
workplace exposure, practical experience, mentorship, and skills that have contributed
significantly to their personal and professional growth.
“The impact of this opportunity extends far beyond financial support. It has helped
shape our future and prepared us to contribute meaningfully to our communities and
the economy,” she added.
The NSF is encouraged by these sentiments, which reflect the broader purpose of the
Work Integrated Learning Programme: creating opportunities for young graduates to
gain meaningful workplace experience and improve their prospects for sustainable
employment.
The Fund will continue to monitor the close-out of the project and ensure compliance
with all contractual, financial, and governance requirements. The NSF remains
committed to strengthening oversight, enforcing accountability among implementing
partners, and safeguarding the interests of learners across all NSF-funded
programmes.
The NSF wishes all learners continued success following their completion of their
workplace learning journey in March 2026 and congratulates those who received
permanent or contract positions where they carried their workplace learning and
pursue meaningful participation in the economy.
Ends
Enquiries:
MediaEnquiries@nsf.org.za
Issued by the National Skills Fund
Public Relations and Communication Unit