This is Sibongile Mani a Walter Sisulu University (WSU) student who, for a three month period, was arguably the richest full-time student in South Africa.
Mani was credited with R14million “food allowance” three months ago and so far the WSU student has spent R818 000 of the windfall. This means that she spent at least R10 900 per day over the period
Mani was meant to have receive a R1 400 allowance paid out in equal amounts over a 10 month period, for the year.
Instead she found herself an instant millionaire.
It is reported by friends close to her that she spent some of the money on expensive weaves and parties. Mani claims she is not at fault.
WSU spokeswoman Yonela Tukwayo admitted that the student had “erroneously” received R14 million in her account and that a forensic investigation was underway.
“The funds were allocated to the student’s IntelliCard, which is the debit card administered by IntelliMali,” she said. Tukwayo said WSU management will meet with IntelliMali CEO Michael Ansell, this afternoon (Wed) to discuss the matter further and “probe how such an error could have occurred and go undetected over (the) period”.
Mani’s account, said Tukwayo, has since been blocked and the remaining balance recovered.
“The student has been advised by the University that she will remain liable for the money that she has spent,” she said.
*This is a developing story. More details will be in tomorrow’s edition of the Dispatch.
-DispatchLIVE
