How Student Became An Overnight Millionaire

How the life of the accounting student who mistakenly received R14 million from NSFAS went from a dream come true to a nightmare

- Bonolo Sekudu

SIBONGILE Mani (27) found herself an overnight millionaire when R14 million was mistakenly deposited into her account by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) recently. The Walter Sisulu University (WSU) student made headlines when she was outed by fellow students after she spent some of the money.

SPENDING SPREE

News of the error broke out after a fellow student discovered an abnormal balance of more than R13 million from a store till slip belonging to Sibongile.

It is reported Sibongile, who is a member of the Pan Africanist Movement of South Africa (Pasma), went on a shopping spree, buying expensive bags, weaves, alcohol and designer clothes. She also threw lavish parties for her friends.

Her lifestyle change was too obvious not to notice and the authorities were notified. It was discovered that she had already spent R818 00 of the money.

AUTHORITIES STEP IN

The initial sum that was supposed to be deposited into Sibongile's account by NSFAS is R1 400 for food and books.

But Sibongile now faces legal action and NSFAS wants her to pay back every cent she used.