By Everson Luhanga
- Each qualifying student can receive up to R100,000 a year for food, accommodation and transport if they pass their courses.
- Officials gave 24 public universities R20-million each so about 200 students at every institution can start getting financial help immediately.
More than 5,000 students at public universities across South Africa will get financial help to pay for their studies this year. A massive new R520-million bursary scheme aims to stop the constant money stress that many students face.
The funding supports first, second and final year students. Each qualifying student can get up to R100,000 a year. To keep the money, they must pass their subjects and meet their course requirements.
Many students struggle to pay for food, accommodation and transport while studying. This new bursary will help cover these specific costs. Officials say this will ease the pressure on students so they can focus on their university work.
The money is already moving. So far, 24 of the 26 public universities in the country have each received R20-million. This early payout means about 200 students at every institution can start to benefit immediately.
Universities South Africa and the Services Sector Education and Training Authority partnered to run the project. They say getting the money out early will help avoid the usual delays that leave students stranded without support.
Universities South Africa chief executive Dr Phethiwe Matutu said the launch brings excitement. She said it also brings responsibility for those who are managing the funds.
Services Sector Education and Training Authority acting chief executive Sibusiso Dhladhla said they have a clear goal. He said they want to build a system that works better for students than past programmes.
Officials said they want these students to return to class without facing any financial or administrative problems.
Pictured above: University students.
Image source: Pexels
